Kohima’s Deputy Commissioner, B. Henok Buchem, has issued a strict directive in favor of a complete ban on jungle and forest burning in an effort to curb the increasing number of forest fire incidents in the district. The regulation is a component of a larger effort to control the rapidly increasing hazard posed by wildfires, which are caused by deliberate and careless fire-starting activities. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that these fires have seriously endangered human lives and caused significant harm to public property and wildlife habitats. Uncontrolled wildfires not only destroy the environment but also endanger the lives of those who live close to forested areas.
The DC said that such actions are considered public nuisances because they disrupt public order and pose an immediate risk to life and property, citing Section 162 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. He therefore called for strict adherence to the prohibition, which will be rigorously implemented across the area. The DC further warned that violators of the restriction would face legal action under the 1937 Rules for Administration of Justice and Police in Nagaland, the 1968 Nagaland Forest Act, and the BNSS. Additionally, the district administration has emphasized the importance of community cooperation in preventing forest fires and urged local groups and residents to exercise caution.
