Condemnation on the action of Manipur Commando and Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Ukhrul

1st September, 2014

Tangkhul Scholars' Association (TSA) expresses its utter condemnation the action of the Manipur Police Commando and Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Ukhrul town on 30th August, 2014, which left two civilians brutally killed and several persons severely injured.

The indiscriminate firing by the state forces on the peaceful participants of the rally demanding immediate expedition of the Indo-Naga Peace Talks and repeal of unprecedented prolong and limitless imposition of 144 CrPC in the town was nothing but a clear manifestation of reign of terror orchestrated to tribal communities in the state.

TSA is aghast to take notice of the present state government law enforcement, which has turned into complete state-sponsored terrorism under the barrel of gun, targeting the helpless tribal communities in the state. Every sane person would question the rationale behind firing automatic weapons on the participants of peaceful rally by state commandos and the IRB personnel who are otherwise, supposed to be protectors of civilians.

The politically stage-managed situation in Ukhrul is not only a direct affront to the peaceful existence of the people in the town, but also learnt to be a consciously pre-meditated effort to derail the ongoing peace talk between government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN). It is a sheer disregard to the ceasefire ground rules between the two negotiating parties that Ibobi finds joy in provoking sentiments of the tribal community in town by imposing Criminal Procedural Code, Section 144.

The vicious act of the government on 30th August, 2014, once again, reminds us the repression of the Nagas at the Mao gate, which resulted in the killing of Neli Chakho and by the Manipur commandos on May 6, 2010.

It is also at the utmost urgency to conduct fair judicial enquiry on the indiscriminate firing by the Commandos and the IRBs, and penalise the concern at once.

Words fall short to express our sadness at the demise of our valued friends, late Ramkashing Vashi, 26, and late Mayopam Ramror, 32, both hailing from Teinem village whose lives have been snatched away by the brutal state force, leaving behind their beloved wives widowed for the rest of their lives.TSA honestly prays that the departed souls may rest in peace and the Almighty may grant strength to them (wives) to overcome the shock and emotional trauma caused by unfortunate incident.

TSA also appeals to all the peace loving citizen of Manipur to be patient & be calm, believing in the Power of Human Wisdom to find solution to the problem confronting us today.

Tangkhul Scholars' Association
President
Dr. Yaruingam Awungshi

General Secretary
Dr. Tuisem Ngakang