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DIMAPUR — Several organisations on Friday condemned the alleged assault of the Angami Students’ Union president by Assam Rifles personnel.
In a statement, the Angami Women Organisation (AWO) asserted that such “arrogant and crude behaviour cannot be tolerated in a civilised society”.
Condemning the “barbaric attack”, the AWO urged the competent authority to deliver justice without delay.
The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) also condemned the “heinous and unprovoked” physical assault, stating that it was gross violation of fundamental rights and an affront to the dignity of the Naga people.
“This incident is not just an attack on an individual, but a direct assault on the entire Naga student community and the values we uphold. The NSF cannot and will not tolerate such blatant acts of intimidation and violence perpetrated by those who are supposed to ensure the security and well-being of the civilians,” it said.
The NSF also reiterated its long-standing demand for the immediate repeal AFSPA from the Naga homeland, asserting that the Act continues to provide a cover of impunity for such inhumane acts.
Calling on all its federating units and sub-ordinate bodies to strictly comply with the standing non-cooperation movement towards the armed forces, it went on to demand the immediate removal of the Assam Rifles camp at D Block, Kohima.
“Its presence in the heart of the town has not only caused immense inconvenience to the public, including traffic congestion, but has now also become a source of harassment and danger to our community leaders,” it said.
Meanwhile, the Ao Students' Conference (AKM) expressed solidarity with the ASU and called upon the AR and other paramilitary forces to respect the democratic rights of the people and to refrain from any activities that could escalate tensions in the region.
Stating that it strongly condemns any form of violence directed towards student leaders, it urged the authorities to take swift action against those responsible.
The AKM also urged the state government and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of student leaders across Nagaland.
Further, the Dimapur Naga Students' Union (DNSU) condemned what it termed as a “flagrant disregard for human rights”.
Stating that the incident underscores the alarming distrust between security forces and the communities they are sworn to protect, it urged authorities to launch a comprehensive impartial investigation into this incident, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and take disciplinary action.
It is crucial that measures are implemented to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future, it added.