Imphal, November 05: The Zomi Human Rights Foundation (ZHRF) and the Kaihlam Village Authority (KVA) today strongly condemned the brutal assault of six civilians by militants at Kaihlam village, within Thanlon sub division on November 1, 2004 and expressed utmost regret that even well-established militant group did not show the slightest regard and respect for the elderly, medical personnel and church workers.

The release issued by the KVA which was published by all local newspapers here today said that the perpetrators belong to the army wing of the group and noted that the incident is the first of its kind in the village.

It also stated that the militants had forcibly collected rice and potatoes from the villagers.

Kaihlam village, which is not even accessible by jeeps, is famous for its high quality potatoes.

The ZHRF said that it is gravely disturbed and deeply shocked by atrocities and acts of violence on civilians by undergrounds since the recent past.

It recalled that Lalthalawm, 20, of Damdiei village under Tipaimukh sub division was shot dead on October 16 in cold blood when he plead against forced labour imposed by the UG group.

The Foundation said that the two latest incidents are of particular concern to all right thinking persons as it is the first instance in which militants throws off any pretence of benevolence and respect for civilian rights and prey upon them with sheer force and brutality.

It noted that Lalthalawm is "the only child of his parents and his crime is that he is so poor and has to go earn his next meal while the six civilians at Kaihlam were punished just for being there, doing their job".

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