Konyak Union lauds state govt. for pursuing justice in Oting killing case

DIMAPUR — The Konyak Union (KU) has lauded the government of Nagaland for its decisive action in seeking the prosecution of army personnel involved in the killing of 14 civilians at Oting in 2021.

This statement comes a day after the Supreme Court issued a notice to the central government regarding the prosecution of 30 Indian Army personnel accused in the incident.

“This move to take the matter at the Supreme Court is a significant step toward ensuring justice for the victims of this horrific incident,” the Konyak Union stated in a press release on Tuesday.

The state of Nagaland had challenged the decision taken by the Centre on February 28, 2024, refusing sanction under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 for the prosecution.

Stating that the union, as guardians of its people, bear the responsibility to protect and safeguard its citizens from any aggressors and criminals, the Konyak Union said it remains hopeful that the state government would continue its relentless efforts to bring justice, thereby restoring hope and faith in the government and the legal system.

The union also stated that it had previously met with Home Minister of the state, Y Patton and urged for the case to be pursued at the highest judicial level.

“We are optimistic that justice will soon be delivered to the victims and that those found guilty, regardless of their uniform, will receive appropriate punishment. Such a grave and gruesome crime must not go unpunished, setting a precedent for the future,” it asserted.

Further, the union stated that it has placed faith in the law enforcement agencies and the state government to see the matter through to a just conclusion, and expressed gratitude to the government diligently pursuing the case in the Supreme Court.

The Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) uncovering of essential information regarding the botched ambush has been pivotal in advancing this case, it added.