Tamenglong
11 March 2026
The Joint Tribe Students Association (JTSA) strongly condemns the actions of the Assam Rifles (AR) personnel in Waphong, Haochong Sub-Division Headquarters today.
The press release issued by Information and Publicity Joint Tribe Students Association stated that, “the AR personnel destroyed bunkers constructed by Village Guards for safeguarding the village and protecting civilians.
“The incident has escalated tension and distress among locals. It is unbecoming and unprofessional that AR personnel also seized belongings of Naga volunteers at Waphong Naga Village.
“Furthermore, while no Nagas had ever opened a single fire against anyone, including security forces, for decades, the AR is always excelling in playing dirty games. Last night at around 11:00 PM, several rounds of ammunition were fired toward the village by the Assam Rifles, which has created fear and panic among the civilians.
“The AR’s actions mark a significant development, as bunkers in Kuki areas have remained untouched. The presence of Kuki militants, disguised as volunteers and equipped with sophisticated weapons, is evident along the road leading to Waphong areas.
“While the JTSA considered the action of Assam Rifles as historic as it destroys Village Volunteers’ Bunkers for the first time since May 3, 2023, it perceives the AR’s actions as biased, like in the past, displaying leniency towards Kuki militants while being stringent with Naga communities. Despite Nagas maintaining peace, the AR has allegedly engaged in provocative actions, targeting villagers.
“The policies of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the actions of the AR have historically caused distress to the Naga people. It appears challenging for the MHA and AR to provide impartial service to all communities.”
The JTSA urges authorities to clarify the reasons behind these actions and address safety concerns.
