AFSPA extension in Naga homeland ‘completely unacceptable’ — Global Naga Forum

• DIMAPUR — The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has termed the recent decision of the Government of India to extend the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1958 (AFSPA), for the next six months in “Naga homeland” as “completely unacceptable.”
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• In a press release on Monday, the GNF said AFSPA is fundamentally anti-democratic and anti-people, and its normalisation in Naga lands through a six-monthly renewal routine for the last sixty-seven years running does not stand up to scrutiny – political, legal, or moral.
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• “It is unconscionable and universally condemnable,” the forum said.

Also read: AFSPA extended to Meluri district

• It maintained that the ongoing ceasefire between Naga political groups and Government of India (GoI) has effectively led to a suspension of armed conflicts in the region and that peace has prevailed for years.
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• Yet, instead of building on the gains of the ceasefire for a more lasting peace by repealing the colonial-era law as a goodwill gesture, GoI has repeatedly imposed the draconian law in Naga areas, “thereby making AFSPA a permanent fixture in the lives of everyday Naga civilians,” the forum said.
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• “AFSPA has come to represent for the vast majority of Nagas the Indian State’s unending repression of Naga people in their own homeland through military oppression and intimidation.
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• “So, the question Naga civil society has for GoI regarding AFSPA boils down to one thing: Does India truly cares about the legitimate aspiration and concerns of the Nagas – the long-cherished Naga desire as a people for lasting peace and a dignified future? Is the Indian government committed to justice for the Nagas by fostering genuine dialogue to reach a negotiated peaceful settlement without AFSPA hanging over the heads and haunting our lands?” GNF asked.
  
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• The forum iterated that the extension of AFSPA undermines the spirit of the ceasefire, contradicts democratic governance principles, and blatantly disregards the Naga people's aspirations.
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• Removal of Protected Area Permit
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• In addition to the “unjustified extension” of AFSPA, the forum said that the re-imposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) on foreign visitors entering Nagaland is another regressive step that must be revoked immediately.
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• It pointed out that PAP/RAP restrictions create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that deter international visitors, researchers, and well-wishers from experiencing the rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and natural beauty of the Naga homeland.
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• “The RAP is yet another colonial-era relic that isolates the Naga people and restricts opportunities for cultural exchange, economic growth, and international awareness of the Naga struggle.
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• “Its continuation is an impediment to tourism and investment, depriving the region of much-needed development and global engagement. We therefore strongly urge the Government of India to lift the RAP restrictions with immediate effect,” GNF said.