In a significant move to preserve customary land rights and protect the cultural identity of the Galo community, the Disi village general assembly has declared Aya, Rokpo, and Dodo segments in Leparada district as community land under customary laws and traditions. The declaration was made during the village’s general assembly, held on June 19 under the chairmanship of GB Sento Riba. The village’s general assembly demarcated the boundaries of the community land based on oral evidence, occupational history, and government records.
The declaration aims to safeguard the collective interests of present and future generations and protect the unity of the village. The assembly also declared that no individual, family, or group shall claim exclusive ownership over any portion of the declared community land. Existing occupants will continue to enjoy peaceful customary occupation and use of their respective holdings, but such occupation will not confer absolute ownership.
The sale, transfer, mortgage, gift, lease, exchange, or any other form of alienation of the declared community land is prohibited without the prior approval of the village assembly. This move is intended to prevent fragmentation and unauthorized alienation of village land. The village assembly reaffirmed the long-established principles of Galo customary law, previous community resolutions, and traditional practices recognizing village settlement lands as community property held collectively for the benefit and welfare of the entire village.
During the meeting, the village assembly constituted the Disi Village Development Committee, with Mobom Riba as its chairman, to coordinate developmental activities, preserve the village’s cultural heritage, strengthen community unity, and promote the conservation of its flora and fauna. The village assembly expressed confidence that the resolution would serve as a landmark example for other villages in promoting responsible customary land governance, community unity, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. The assembly was attended by HGBs Chiken Dirchi and Seni Riba, GBs, GPC Migo Riba, DSP Kengo Dirchi, retired DDSE Dakken Riba, retired teacher Jummar Riba, DHO Henbom Dirchi, senior citizens, women, and youth representatives.
