The Oting Students’ Union (OSU) has expressed profound shock and deep disappointment over the Supreme Court of India’s recent decision to close criminal proceedings against 30 Army personnel involved in the tragic killing of 13 civilians in Oting, Mon district, Nagaland, on December 4, 2021.
In a statement, the OSU called the decision “disheartening” and a “grave concern,” emphasizing that the incident, which claimed the lives of innocent villagers, “remains a painful scar in the hearts of the entire community.” The union had hoped for justice and accountability but now feels that this decision “is not only disheartening but also an insult to the memory of the victims and their grieving families.”
The OSU noted that the people of Oting, and Nagaland as a whole, have always placed their faith in the judiciary’s role in upholding justice, especially for vulnerable communities. However, the union believes that the Supreme Court’s ruling has “shattered our faith,” leaving the community with “deep sorrow and a sense of abandonment.” The closure of the case, they argue, fails to address the injustice and trauma inflicted upon the people of Oting.
In their statement, the OSU urged civil society groups and the general public to “stand with us in seeking justice,” calling for collective efforts to ensure that the memory of those who lost their lives is not forgotten. “Together, we must continue to fight for accountability and for the dignity of those who were so brutally taken from us,” the OSU stated.
The union also appealed to higher authorities to reconsider the decision and encouraged all who value justice to “join us in this crucial battle for truth and righteousness.”
Meanwhile Chief Minister Rio talking to the media said, “State has already registered a protest and court will take it up”.