Three weeks after the killing of 14 civilians in Mon district and the continued protests against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the centre has finally relented to people’s demands.
A press communique from the Nagaland government said Union Home Minister Amit Shah will look into the withdrawal of controversial law AFSPA. “A committee to look into the withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Nagaland will be instituted. It will be Chaired by the Additional Secretary-NE, MHA, and will include the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Nagaland. Other Members that will be included in the committee arc IGAR (N) and representative of the CRPF. The Committee will submit its report within 45 day and withdrawal of Disturbed Area and AFSPA from Nagaland will be based on the recommendations of the committee,” the statement added.
“A Court of Enquiry will initiate disciplinary proceedings against the army unit and army personnel, who are directly involved in the Oting incident and action will be taken immediately on the basis of fair enquiry. The identified persons who will face the enquiry will be placed under suspension with immediate effect,” the statement said.
Apart from this, the state Government will also provide government jobs to the next of kin of the deceased. “To initiate this process, the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police of Mon district, will carry out necessary procedures in consultation with the concerned village councils and government jobs will be given on compassionate grounds on the basis of eligibility. The Nagaland delegation impressed upon the UHM to replace the Assam Rifles unit in Mon with immediate effect,” the press statement said.
Earlier this month, the Nagaland assembly unanimously resolved to demand a repeal of AFSPA from the northeast, especially the state. The state has seen unrelenting protests against the draconian act and CM Rio has called for its repeal.
The state government further appealed to all sections to remain calm and to continue to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. “The democratic and peaceful nature of the civil society groups, tribal hohos and mass-based organisations in our collective quest for justice and truth has been well received and has created a positive image of the Naga people to the rest of the global community,” read the statement.
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