The National Socialist Women’s Organisation of Nagalim (NSWON) has strongly condemned the alleged crackdown on Tangkhul Naga women who staged a peaceful protest at Shokvao/New Heaven and adjoining areas on June 7, and demanded a transparent and impartial inquiry into the incident.
In a statement issued by its Chairperson, NSWON expressed “profound disapproval” over what it described as the “brutal crackdown” of a democratic protest organized by Tangkhul Naga women against the alleged “unlawful intrusion” of the 40 Assam Rifles under the command of Colonel Sunil Singh Lunthi.
According to NSWON, the women were exercising their legitimate right to voice concerns regarding what they regard as the high-handed conduct of the Assam Rifles in areas governed by established Naga customary institutions and practices.
“Their assembly was not an act of confrontation but a lawful, peaceful assertion of accountability, dignity, and respect for customary jurisdiction,” the NSWON claimed.
NSWON stated that the incident was not an isolated occurrence and alleged that repeated actions perceived as disregarding long-standing customary authority and local protocols have contributed to growing mistrust between security forces and Naga communities. “Any use of force, intimidation, or coercion against peaceful women demonstrators is inconsistent with democratic values and the standards expected of security forces,” it stated.
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NSWON urged the Assam Rifles and the relevant authorities to exercise restraint, sensitivity, and wisdom in engagements with Naga communities. “Peace cannot be sustained through unilateral actions; it must be built through consultation, mutual respect, and recognition of the historical and customary realities that prevail in Naga areas,” the statement said.
The women’s organization also cautioned that heavy-handed responses and rhetoric perceived as disrespectful could deepen public grievances and undermine democratic principles.
NSWON demanded a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident and called for accountability if any excesses were committed. It further urged the Assam Rifles to respect customary jurisdiction and established local protocols and to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions.
Expressing solidarity with the protesters, NSWON said it stood firmly with the women of Shokvao and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding humanity, dignity, and the political rights of the Naga people.
