Tensions Flare as Forest Fire Erupts Along Assam-Nagaland Border

Tensions escalated near Mariani in Assam’s Jorhat district after miscreants set fire to forest land in the Tiru Hills Reserve Forest on Thursday. Large areas of greenery on Lakhimijan Hills were destroyed. Locals allege Nagas are behind the act and accuse their administration of complicity. Forest officials have begun an investigation but withheld comments. Residents criticized the lack of forest patrolling. The incident follows recent border firing cases and ongoing disputes, with Assam Minister Atul Bora confirming Nagaland’s claim over 12,882.66 sq. m of disputed land.