Alleged assault on Naga youth by 16 Assam Rifles, NSF condemns

Kohima: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has condemned what it termed as the “brutal assault” of one Loli Kaihrii, allegedly by personnel of the 16 Assam Rifles Battalion, Mao Post on September 2. Kaihrii is a respected member of the Kalinamei Village community and serves as the Games and Sports Secretary of the Kalinamei Youth and Students’ Organisation, as well as the Auditor of the Senapati District Truck Drivers Union.

The NSF stated that it was “deeply aggrieved” to learn that he was subjected to an “unprovoked and inhumane attack” by the personnel.

Citing “ground reports,” the federation alleged that Kaihrii was “grabbed by the neck and kicked from behind” by the AR personnel, as well as slapped and gun-butted by one Major Anish, who was in command of the post.  The NSF also alleged that the Major also threatened Kaihrii’s life and “fired three shots into the air.”

“This caused panic among the crowd who were present in hopes of finding an amicable resolution,” it added.

In this connection, the federation maintained that the 16 Assam Rifles, who claimed to be “Friends of the Hill People,” have once again betrayed the trust of the Naga community.

“This incident is not an isolated one but part of a troubling pattern of abuse and intimidation that the Naga people have endured under the guise of law and order,” it asserted.

Accordingly, the NSF demanded “immediate and decisive action against the armed personnel involved in this heinous act,” terming it not only unacceptable but also a gross violation of the basic rights of the people. It further reiterated its call for the immediate repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from the Naga homeland, a draconian law that has “perpetuated violence and oppression in our region for far too long.”

In addition, the NSF reaffirmed its stand on non-cooperation with the armed forces and stated that this must be upheld by all federating units and subordinate bodies of the federation.

“We will not stand idly by as the dignity and safety of our people are trampled upon,” stated a condemnation note issued by the NSF President Medovi Rhi and General Secretary Chumben Khuvung.

The NSF stands in solidarity with Kaihrii and the people of Kalinamei Village and will continue to pursue justice and ensure that those responsible for this atrocity are held accountable, it added.