Kohima, May 1: The Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) has strongly opposed the proposed installation of an advanced mountain radar system at Pfutsero in Phek district, Nagaland, under the Government of India’s high-altitude defence programme, citing serious concerns over health risks, environmental impact, land rights and lack of transparency.
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In a press release issued on April 30, the apex body representing the Chakhesang community said the project was unacceptable in the absence of transparent, location-specific safety studies and informed public consent. The organisation stated that a project with far-reaching implications for human health, land and livelihoods should not be imposed without the knowledge, participation and approval of the people directly affected.
The CPO raised concerns about possible exposure to electromagnetic radiation from high-powered radar systems, particularly in a densely inhabited high-altitude area such as Pfutsero. It noted that the absence of publicly available health impact assessments, radiation benchmarks and clearly defined safety buffer zones has deepened public apprehension about potential long-term health risks.
The organisation also warned that Pfutsero and its surrounding areas are ecologically sensitive and agriculturally dependent. According to the CPO, any large-scale defence infrastructure could threaten natural water systems, biodiversity and land stability, while also affecting agriculture, livelihoods and food security in the region.
Further, the organisation expressed concern that defence installations often lead to restrictions on land use and civilian movement, including the creation of controlled zones and limited access to residential and agricultural land. It stated that such limitations would be unacceptable in a region where land is closely linked to identity, inheritance and community survival.
The CPO also criticised the lack of transparency surrounding the project, stating that the proposal, reportedly conceived as early as 2014, has largely remained undisclosed to the public. It held the state government responsible for permitting the advancement of such a sensitive project without prior consultation or informed consent from the affected communities.
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Demanding immediate action, the organisation called for an immediate halt to all plans for radar installation at Pfutsero and urged authorities to relocate the proposed system outside Nagaland, preferably to uninhabited or less sensitive areas.
Reaffirming the community’s position, the CPO said the Chakhesang people have long upheld principles of peace, dignity and self-determination, and warned that any attempt to proceed with the installation within their jurisdiction would face firm, democratic and united resistance.
The statement was jointly issued by CPO President Vezühü Keyho and General Secretary Chepetso Koza.
