Nagaland police allegedly construct temporary camp in Merapani, sparks outcry in Assam

Fresh tensions have erupted in the Assam-Nagaland border area of Merapani after Nagaland authorities allegedly set up a police camp at Negheribil, in violation of the long-standing 1985 Dimapur status quo agreement.

According to sources in the CRPF, what Nagaland describes as a “temporary police camp” has been erected on land recently cleared during Assam’s eviction drive. The Dimapur accord—signed after the violent 1985 Merapani clash—strictly prohibited either state from establishing armed police camps in disputed border zones. Nagaland’s move, therefore, has triggered strong reactions from local groups and residents in Assam.

The controversy comes close on the heels of Assam’s eviction drive on August 8, when the administration demolished houses of 146 families out of 205 identified encroachers in Negheribil village No. 2. However, the second phase of eviction was halted after the Gauhati High Court ordered a stay on the removal of the remaining 59 families. Before Assam could resume its operations, Naga forces swiftly occupied the vacated land to set up the camp, sparking outrage.

Eyewitnesses report that since yesterday, hundreds of Naga police personnel, along with civilians, have been actively engaged in constructing the camp. Despite the presence of Assam Police and CRPF personnel in the area, the Assam administration has maintained a muted stance, raising concerns among local residents.

Border organizations, pressure groups, and villagers have condemned Nagaland’s “aggressive expansionist approach.” The Bir Lachit Sena has also called upon the Assam government to intervene immediately, stop Nagaland’s encroachment, and ensure the safety and rights of the indigenous population along the border.