Supreme Court’s ruling on Oting case Konyak Union shows outrage

Kohima: The Konyak Union (KU) has voiced its shock and disbelief at the recent decision of the Supreme Court to quash the Oting case, where 13 innocent civilians were brutally killed on December 4, 2021 in a botched ambush by the 21 Para SF from Jorhat.

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

It is undeniable that sufficient evidences and proofs, as documented in the SIT report, have been made available to substantiate the wrongful killings. With this decision, it 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 KU described.

The KU also pointed out that despite mounting pressure from various quarters and pain, it had, in the spirit of peace and reconciliation, maintained a calm and cooperative relationship with all concerned parties, hoping that justice would be served.

“This should not be mistaken as weakness. The Konyak Union (KU) will 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 went on to state.

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

While underscoring that KU’s advocacy for peace and reconciliation was born out of sincere desire for progress and goodwill for all, in the belief that justice would prevail, it said the gravity of the crime demands a response that reinstates trust in the judiciary and the democratic system.

The KU has therefore urged the State Government to make a fresh appeal to the Supreme Court for the prosecution of the involved personnel and called upon the Ministry of Home Affairs to grant ‘Prosecution Sanction’ without delay.

It also appealed to both the State and Central government 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 KU reiterated its demand for immediate withdrawal of AFSPA. “This law, which enables impunity for those responsible for innocent lives lost, must be repealed immediately. 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,” the press release read.