Mokokchung, 7 February (MTNews): Moalong Jamir, a second-semester student at Tetso College and a bona fide member of the Soyim Students’ Union (SSU), was viciously assaulted by two police personnel on 29 January, as was reported by SSU in a press statement issued today.
According to SSU, the assault resulted in severe injuries, including damage to his left eardrum, a fractured spinal cord, and a swollen kidney.
Expressing deep concern and outrage, the SST office highlighted the alarming nature of the incident, leaving many feeling violated and disillusioned with the institutions meant to protect and serve the public. The office emphasized that such acts of aggression and abuse of power are inexcusable and contradict the principles law enforcement should uphold: to protect and serve the people.
“These officers’ actions are not only illegal, but also a clear violation of the student’s rights and safety. It is profoundly unsettling that individuals who are expected to uphold the law and safeguard citizens have instead opted to use their authority to commit such horrible crimes,” stated the SSU.
Demanding accountability, the SSU urged for a full investigation into the incident and called for the officers responsible to be brought to justice. In solidarity with the victim, the SSU office stressed the need for immediate and serious measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. It urged law enforcement agencies to prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens, especially students.
Condemning the incident, the All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) has labeled the act as a “clear violation of human rights” and a direct contradiction to the principles of a just and democratic society. ANCSU further urged for holding those responsible accountable for their actions and ensuring that such incidents do not recur.
“The incident has garnered significant media attention and has shocked and appalled not only the family members but also the entire student community. While law enforcement agencies are entrusted with ensuring safety, it is disheartening to witness such a blatant abuse of power and a violation of the public’s trust in the police force. The incident undermines the principles of justice and fairness and erodes the community’s faith in law enforcement,” the student body stated.
It also called for immediate investigation and appropriate action against the police personnel involved, while calling upon all right-thinking citizens and organizations to vehemently condemn such criminal acts to deliver justice to the innocent victim and prevent future occurrences.
AKM calls for immediate justice and accountability
The Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) also vehemently condemned the “appalling incident” and maintained that the “ brutal assault” by police personnel was a “horrific violation of human rights and a blight upon our society.”
AKM stated in a press release that such “wicked disregard for the well-being and dignity of individuals is not only reprehensible but also a betrayal of the trust bestowed upon law enforcement agencies by the public.”
It added that the excessive use of force against an unarmed student not only undermines the fabric of justice and fairness but also instills fear and insecurity.
While expressing solidarity with the vicitm and his family, the AKM also demanded prompt and decisive action from the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are immediately suspended pending a thorough and impartial investigation. “Justice must prevail, and accountability must be upheld to restore faith in the integrity of our law enforcement institutions,” it said.
AKM further called upon “all citizens of conscience and organizations committed to upholding human rights” to join them in condemning such despicable acts and advocating for the rights and dignity of every individual. “Let us unite in our seeking of justice and ensure that such act of brutality never find harbor in our society again,” it added.
“We urge the authorities to act immediately, transparently, and justifiably in delivering accountability and recompense for the grievous harm inflicted upon Mr. Jamir,” AKM stated.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain committed in our tracking of justice for the victim and his family,” it declared.