The Phekmi Collegiate Forum (PCF) has strongly condemned what it described as the unnecessary and humiliating frisking of one of its members by personnel of the 39 Assam Rifles on March 12 at Phek Village.
In a condemnation note issued on March 14, the forum stated that the individual concerned is a bona fide member of the PCF and also the General Secretary of the Phek Students’ Union.
According to the forum, the student leader was allegedly frisked and questioned on suspicion of being associated with an underground faction.
“The Forum views this action with deep concern and disappointment, as such treatment of a responsible student leader is both unjustified and humiliating. Student leaders who actively work for the welfare and represents the student’s community should not be subjected to suspicion and intimidation without credible grounds,” the statement said.
The forum further pointed out that the Assam Rifles, which uses the slogan “Friends of the Hill People,” is expected to uphold this principle in both letter and spirit.
“While security forces play an important role in maintaining peace and stability, taking undue advantage of the provisions under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) to harass innocent civilians only erodes public trust and damages the relationship between the security forces and the people,” the forum stated.
The PCF urged the authorities of the 39 Assam Rifles to exercise greater responsibility, restraint and sensitivity while dealing with civilians. It also called on higher authorities to take note of the incident and ensure that similar situations do not recur.
The forum added that it stands in solidarity with the aggrieved individual and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of its members and the wider student community.