The Katho Katamnao Long expresses its strongest condemnation and deepest resentment over the brutal physical assault on its President by personnel of the Assam Rifles at Finch Corner and announced non cooperation with the Assam Rifles.
The press statement issued by Shanching Yanao, Vice President, Katho Katamnao Long stated that “such actions are reprehensible, unjustifiable, and wholly unacceptable in a democratic society governed by the rule of law. No individual should ever be subjected to physical violence or abuse under any circumstances.
“The assault on the President was not an isolated incident. Assam Rifles personnel also exploited the situation surrounding a peaceful public protest and carried out a violent lathi charge against civilians under the command of Colonel Sunil Singh Lunthi, (Commanding Officer) of the 40th Assam Rifles stationed at Shangshak Village. The Assam Rifles personnel under his command not only used excessive force against unarmed protesters, including women, he even threatened onlookers with knives. Further, Assam Rifles personnel involved in today’s incident were under the influence of alcohol.
“Women gathered peacefully at Finch Corner were subjected to a lathi charge, and similar force was used against women assembled at Shokvao Village. Furthermore, live rounds were fired at New Heaven in an apparent attempt to intimidate and disperse women who were peacefully protesting against the illegal establishment of a temporary outpost in the area.
“As a consequence of these actions, a total of twenty women, along with the President of the Katho Katamnao Long, sustained injuries. These acts represent a grave violation of fundamental human rights and pose a direct threat to life, dignity, and personal liberty. Such conduct is contrary to the guarantees enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which protects every individual’s right to life and personal liberty. No law confers upon any security force the authority or immunity to physically assault civilians or suppress peaceful democratic expression through violence.
“In light of these serious incidents, the Katho Katamnao Long calls upon all civil society organizations, particularly the Tangkhul Naga Long and the Tangkhul Shanao Long, to stand in solidarity with the affected victims and to take immediate steps toward identifying the Assam Rifles personnel involved in today’s assault. We urge that concrete and appropriate action be initiated against all those responsible, regardless of rank or position.
“Furthermore, the Katho Katamnao Long hereby announces non-cooperation with Assam Rifles and calls for the immediate and indefinite suspension of vehicular movement on all roads and highways passing through Katho jurisdiction, including the movement of all security personnel. This course of action shall remain in effect until the Assam Rifles:
1. Issues an official public apology for the conduct of its personnel;
2. Withdraws the illegal temporary outpost established at New Heaven; and
3. Initiates strict and exemplary disciplinary action against all personnel involved in today’s assault and acts of intimidation.
“The restriction shall continue and be intensified until these demands are fully met. However, essential services, including healthcare providers, emergency services, and accredited media personnel, shall remain exempt from the shutdown.
“The Katho Katamnao Long reiterates its commitment to justice, human dignity, and democratic rights, and will continue to pursue all lawful and peaceful means to ensure accountability for the incidents that occurred today”.
