The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) expressed concern and condemned the physical assault on the President of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) by members of the 13th Assam Rifles on 9 August.
This act of violence, which occurred around 12:30 PM near the Assam Rifles camp at D Block, Kohima, is a grave violation of human rights and an affront to the dignity of student leadership in Nagaland, AKM stated in a press release.
Declaring solidarity with the ASU, AKM said it support their call for an immediate shutter down and indefinite bandh in all Angami-inhabited areas starting from 10 August.
“The AKM strongly condemns any form of harassment or violence directed towards student leaders and urges the authorities to take swift action against those responsible,” AKM president Lanutoshi Aier and general secretary Satemmongba stated in the press release.
The AKM further called upon the Assam Rifles and other paramilitary forces to respect the democratic rights of the people and to refrain from any activities that could escalate tensions in the region. AKM also urged the state government and relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of student leaders across Nagaland.
Furthermore, AKM also appealed to the public to stand united with the ASU during this critical time and to adhere to the bandh in support of justice and the protection of their rights.