The Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) has submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh during his maiden visit to Leingangpokpi Police Outpost in Tatbung village, raising serious concerns over the jurisdiction of certain reserved forest areas in the district.

In the memorandum, the council expressed gratitude for the Chief Minister’s visit and placed before him key issues affecting the local population. It highlighted that the extension of the Kaiphundai Reserved Forest under the Jiri Forest Division, despite being geographically located within Tamenglong district, has created widespread concern among residents.

The RNCM also objected to a proposed extension of the Oinamlong Reserved Forest, similarly intended to be placed under the Jiri Forest Division, even though the area falls within Tamenglong’s jurisdiction. The council noted that the matter is already under consideration following an interim order by the High Court.

Terming the move a “serious constitutional concern,” the council stated that such administrative decisions could undermine the rights of indigenous hill communities over land and resources, as protected under Article 371(c) of the Indian Constitution.

The memorandum urged the Chief Minister to intervene and ensure that both the Kaiphundai and Oinamlong Reserved Forest areas are brought under the Tamenglong Forest Division. It also called for wider consultation with stakeholders to address public sentiments and prevent potential misunderstandings.

Emphasising the need for communal harmony, the RNCM said its appeal was made in the larger interest of maintaining peaceful coexistence among communities based on mutual trust and respect.