SC ruling on Oting case a blow to justice — Konyak Union

Urges Nagaland govt. to appeal decision, repeal AFSPA

DIMAPUR — The Konyak Union (KU) has expressed deep shock and disbelief at the Supreme Court’s recent decision to quash criminal proceedings against the Indian army personnel involved in the 2021 Oting massacre, in which 13 innocent civilians were killed.

“This decision comes as a significant blow to justice and accountability, especially when the entire world recognises that this incident was a clear violation of military operational standards,” the KU said in a press release on Tuesday.

The apex Konyak body said that sufficient evidence and proof, as documented in the Special Investigation Team (SIT) report, have been made available to substantiate the wrongful killings.

“With this decision, the KU is left to question whether there is any meaningful difference between a terror group and some rogue elements within the Indian armed forces who, under the cover of the draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), can carry out such heinous acts and evade prosecution”, the press release said.

Despite mounting pressure, the KU said that it has maintained a calm and cooperative relationship with all concerned parties, hoping that justice would be served.

The KU did not deliberately hold the entire armed forces responsible for the actions of a few, but we expect justice for the families of the victims, and accountability for those involved in the Oting massacre, it said.

“However, should the Government of India remain adamant in protecting these guilty soldiers, it will bring embarrassment to the nation on a global scale”, it said, asserting that the same standards of justice must apply to all.

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Stating that its advocacy for peace and reconciliation was born out of a sincere desire for progress and goodwill for all, in the belief that justice would prevail, the KU said that the gravity of the crime “demands a response that reinstates trust in the judiciary and the democratic system.”

It therefore urged the government of Nagaland to make a fresh appeal to the Supreme Court for the prosecution of the involved personnel and also called upon the Ministry of Home Affairs to grant “prosecution sanction” without delay.

The KU also appealed to the state and central governments to provide further financial aid and support to the families of the victims, especially to those who have been severely injured and left permanently disabled.

Further, the Konyak Union reiterated its demand for the immediate withdrawal of AFSPA, saying that it enables impunity for those responsible for the loss of innocent lives.

“The KU remains hopeful that justice will prevail, and we urge all concerned parties to work towards a logical and just conclusion to this case, ensuring closure for the families of the victims and the people of Nagaland”, it added.