Assam outfits start economic blockade of Nagaland

GOLAGHAT, ASSAM: Protesters belonging to various outfits from Assam have started an indefinite economic blockade of Nagaland to protest against alleged encroachment of land in Golaghat district of Assam by people from the neighbouring state.

Around 200 protesters gathered at 11 am this morning and have blocked National Highway-39 at Rangajan in Golaghat district.

The protesters belong to Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP), Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) and All Tea Tribes Students' Union, among others.

According to the police, the protest has so far been peaceful and district administration are trying to persuade the outfits to lift the blockade.

The NH-39, which goes to Dimapur in Nagaland from Assam, is the lifeline for the neighbouring state.

The protesters are demanding return of around 250 bighas of land in Merapani area of Golaghat district which has allegedly been taken over by people from Nagaland, sources said.