An assault on human rights, democracy
The Naga Rising appeals for Supreme Court monitored independent probe for swift justice, seeks statement of Defence Minister on justification of AFSPA
The indiscriminate killing of unarmed civilians by the Special Forces (21 Para Commandos) of the Indian Army in Oting, Mon district is nothing but plain murder and an assault on human rights and democracy.
The Naga Rising condemns in the strongest terms the senseless action of armed forces personnel and we firmly appeal to the Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to demand for a Supreme Court monitored independent probe that will ensure fair and swift justice to the victims.
Are draconian laws such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1958 (AFSPA) enacted to kill civilians by the armed forces? How can killing be protected by special powers?
Notwithstanding the immunity conferred under the notorious AFSPA, the errant armed personnel should be brought to account on criminal charges. It may be mentioned that the Supreme Court of India in a historic ruling in 2016 had stated that use of excessive force was not permissible even in areas declared disturbed under AFPSA.
The Nagaland government along with all political parties and civil society should also demand the Union Defence Minister to make a statement in Parliament on the present government’s justification in continuing with the AFSPA despite earlier recommendation for its repeal by the Justice BP Jeevan Reddy committee appointed by the Government of India and also similar observation for its repeal by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission.
The incident reinforces the notion that in the eyes of armed forces personnel the lives of Nagas are of lesser value than others. That the victims happened to be in a conflict region was enough reason to take their lives.
How hollow in the meaning of the country being the world’s largest democracy. When basic human rights such as the right to life is under threat at the hands of one’s own security personnel, democracy is as good as dead.
What a shame that the world’s largest army used its might against a group of innocent unarmed villagers. This only reflects how the army operates with such a small mindset and low self-esteem.
The Naga Rising stands in solidarity with the victims’ families, the people of Mon district and the ENPO in their demand for justice.
We will keep track of the course of justice and shall not remain silent if justice is delayed or justice is denied.
In this hour of deep sorrow, The Naga Rising expresses its deepest condolences to the deceased families and pray that Almighty God gives them comfort and strength.
Issued by The Naga Rising
December 6, 2021
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