The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has condemned the recent decision by the Central Government to extend the application of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the Naga homeland.
Last week, the Center declared eight districts and 21 police stations across five other districts of Nagaland as ‘disturbed’ for a period of six months until September 30, 2024, under the provisions of AFSPA.
“This extension of AFSPA is not just a matter of legal technicalities; it represents a continued disregard for the rights, dignity, and aspirations of the Naga people. AFSPA has long been associated with egregious human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, and systemic abuses of power by the armed forces operating in our region. It is a draconian law that has only served to deepen the mistrust and alienation between the civilian population and the security forces,” stated the NSF.
The decision to extend AFSPA in Nagaland, according to the Federation, was particularly egregious given the region’s long-standing quest for peace, justice, and reconciliation. It expressed belief that the extension of AFSPA was not only unjust but also counterproductive to the goal of achieving lasting peace and stability in Nagaland.
“Instead of addressing the root causes of conflict and working towards a meaningful resolution, the government has chosen to perpetuate a system of state-sanctioned violence and oppression. By empowering security forces with sweeping powers and impunity, AFSPA only serves to further destabilize our communities and undermine the prospects for genuine peacebuilding and reconciliation,” asserted NSF.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
In this regard, the Federation called upon the Government of India to immediately revoke the extension of AFSPA in Nagaland and engage in sincere dialogue with all stakeholders to address the underlying grievances and aspirations of the Naga people.
“It is only through a process of inclusive and transparent dialogue that we can hope to build a future based on justice, dignity, and mutual respect. Furthermore, we urge the international community, human rights organizations, and all people of conscience to stand in solidarity with the Naga people in our struggle against the oppressive regime of AFSPA. We will not rest until our voices are heard, our rights are respected, and our homeland is free from the shackles of militarization and oppression,” stated the NSF.
The NSF further reiterated its commitment to defending the rights and interests of the Naga people, and to mobilize and organize until justice is served.
