The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has condemned an alleged assault by personnel of the 16 Assam Rifles Battalion stationed at Mao Post on September 2, 2024. The incident involved Loli Kaihrii, the Games and Sports Secretary of the Kalinamei Youth and Students’ Organisation, who also serves as the Auditor of the Senapati District Truck Drivers Union.
The NSF alleged that as per the ground reports, Kaihrii was grabbed by the neck and kicked from behind by members of the Assam Rifles.
According to a statement from the NSF, Kaihrii was reportedly subjected to an “unprovoked and inhumane attack.” Ground reports alleged that he was grabbed by the neck and kicked from behind by members of the Assam Rifles. The NSF further claimed that the commanding officer, Major Anish, escalated the situation by slapping Kaihrii, butting his face with a rifle, and threatening his life with the words, “I’ll kill you.” The Major allegedly fired three shots into the air, causing panic among those present who had hoped for an amicable resolution.
“The 16 Assam Rifles, who claim to be ‘Friends of the Hill People,’ have once again betrayed the trust of the Naga community. This incident is not an isolated one but part of a troubling pattern of abuse and intimidation that the Naga people have endured under the guise of law and order,” it added.
The NSF demanded “immediate and decisive” action against the armed personnel involved in this heinous act arguing that such behavior is not only unacceptable but also a gross violation of the basic rights of the people.
The NSF reiterated their call for the immediate repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from the Naga homeland, “a draconian law that has perpetuated violence and oppression in our region for far too long”.
The NSF also reaffirmed its stance on non-cooperation with the armed forces, urging all federating units and subordinate bodies of the Federation to uphold this position. The Naga Students’ Federation stands in solidarity with Loli Kaihrii and the people of Kalinamei Village, vowing to pursue justice and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.