Dollungmukh Landowners Demand Fair Compensation from IAF

Itanagar, India Jul 31, 2026 ALN: ITANAGAR, 30 Jul: The bonafide landowners of Dollungmukh area in Kamle district have urged the Indian Air Force (IAF) to pay fair compensation for land used by it over five decades and execute a fresh 50-year lease agreement with the landowners for continued use of the land.

This situation arises from a long-standing relationship between the local landowners and the IAF, which has utilized the land for various operational purposes, including military exercises and the establishment of air bases. The IAF's presence in the region has been crucial for national security, particularly given the strategic location of , which shares borders with several countries, including China. The landowners have historically acknowledged the importance of the IAF's operations, often prioritizing national security over personal economic interests.

On behalf of the landowners, public leader Ajay Murtem submitted a representation to the AOC-in-C of the IAF’s Eastern Air Command, headquartered in Shillong, Meghalaya, stating that many affected landowners have not received fair and adequate compensation. This lack of compensation has been a point of contention, as many landowners feel that their contributions to national security have not been reciprocated with appropriate financial recognition.

“The landowners have always extended full cooperation to the IAF in the interest of national security and defence. They have never objected to the use of their land, recognising the strategic importance of the Air Force establishment. However, many affected landowners have not received fair and adequate compensation. In several cases, proper lease arrangements have either expired or were never formally executed with the rightful landowners,” Murtem stated in his representation. This highlights a significant issue regarding the legal standing of land use and compensation, as many landowners feel that their rights have been overlooked.

Murtem, who is also the chairman of the Citizens Right Protection Forum Dollungmukh, urged the IAF’s Eastern Air Command AOC-in-C to conduct a detailed verification and survey of all land presently under the occupation and use of the IAF in the Dollungmukh area. This call for a comprehensive assessment underscores the complexity of land ownership and usage rights, particularly in regions where military operations intersect with civilian land use. The verification process is seen as a necessary step to ensure that all affected parties are recognized and compensated fairly.

He further urged that a fresh 50-year lease agreement be executed with the landowners for continued use of the land by the IAF. This request for a new lease agreement reflects the landowners' desire for a formalized and legally binding arrangement that would provide them with security and assurance regarding the use of their land. Such agreements are not uncommon in military-civilian land use scenarios, as they can provide a framework for compensation, rights, and responsibilities.

In addition to the lease agreement, Murtem also urged the IAF to pay annual lease rent and other legal benefits to the rightful landowners on time. Timely compensation is critical in maintaining trust and goodwill between the military and the local community, and delays in payments can lead to resentment and disputes. To facilitate better communication and resolution of issues, he proposed that the IAF nominate a competent officer to discuss the matters with the affected landowners for an amicable settlement.

“We believe that providing fair compensation and regularising the land through a lawful lease agreement will strengthen the relationship between the IAF and the local community while ensuring justice to the affected families,” the memorandum read. This sentiment reflects a broader understanding that military operations and local communities can coexist harmoniously when there is mutual respect and adherence to legal frameworks governing land use.

Stating that copies of the representation have been submitted to the Defence Ministry, the chief minister, the Raga MLA, and other officials concerned, Murtem urged the IAF to initiate necessary action and consider the long-pending matter sympathetically and at the earliest. The involvement of local political figures and government officials indicates the significance of this issue within the broader context of civil-military relations in India. It also highlights the role of governmental oversight in ensuring that military establishments operate within the legal and ethical frameworks that protect the rights of local populations.

The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate concerns of the Dollungmukh landowners. It raises questions about the broader practices of land acquisition and compensation by the military across India, especially in regions where land use intersects with national defense. As India continues to modernize its military capabilities and expand its strategic infrastructure, the need for fair compensation and transparent agreements will be crucial in maintaining social stability and public trust in government institutions.

Moreover, as the IAF and other military branches navigate their operational needs in sensitive areas, the importance of community engagement and the establishment of fair compensation practices will be paramount. This case could serve as a precedent for similar situations in other regions, prompting a reevaluation of how military land use is managed and how local populations are treated in the process.

In conclusion, the call for fair compensation and a new lease agreement from the Dollungmukh landowners is not just about financial restitution; it is about recognizing the rights and contributions of local communities in the context of national security. As discussions progress, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the relationship between the IAF and the communities it interacts with, potentially influencing policies and practices related to land use by military establishments throughout India.