Several Naga student organisations have strongly condemned the reported stopping of a Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) delegation by Assam Rifles personnel at the Avangkhu Check Gate in Meluri district on September 19, as the delegation was proceeding to Myanmar for a proposed cultural exchange with Naga communities across the international border.
The Pochury Students’ Union (PSU), All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK), All Zeliangrong Students’ Union (AMN), Rengma Students’ Union (RSU) and Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), in separate statements, expressed concern over the reported denial of passage and called for a clear explanation from the concerned authorities.
The organisations said the delegation had reportedly carried necessary references and identification for the proposed visit, which they described as an initiative aimed at promoting cultural understanding and strengthening people-to-people relations among Naga communities on both sides of the Indo-Myanmar border.
The PSU questioned the grounds on which the delegation was stopped and sought clarification on whether any specific security concern, violation of law or written directive had been cited. It called for a clear, written and legally tenable explanation from the Assam Rifles, stressing that any restriction on civilian movement should be based on identifiable security concerns and established legal procedures.
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The SKK said the reported action had caused concern among the Naga student community and expressed solidarity with the NSF. It urged the authorities to address issues concerning the movement of legitimate Naga institutions through dialogue and due process.
The AZSU(AMN) acknowledged the security sensitivities associated with an international border but said restrictions affecting peaceful cultural exchanges deserved clear explanation. It called upon the authorities to clarify the circumstances and ensure that legitimate cultural and social engagements were facilitated through appropriate procedures.
The RSU also questioned the reported restriction and urged the Government of India and concerned authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident. It said the unique history, identity and aspirations of the Naga people should be respected.
The AKM called for the incident to be addressed through dialogue, transparency and mutual understanding. It stressed that any restriction on the peaceful movement of citizens or student representatives should have clear and lawful grounds and be appropriately communicated to those concerned.
The student organisations appealed to the authorities to exercise restraint and responsibility, while stressing the importance of maintaining trust, dignity and peaceful people-to-people relations along the international border.
There was no immediate response from the Assam Rifles on the allegations contained in the statements.
