The Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur, has condemned the alleged use of excessive force and tear gas by the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and other security personnel against protesters at Namdilong, claiming that four civilians were seriously injured in the incident.
In a statement, the council alleged that security personnel used disproportionate force against people from foothill areas and indigenous communities who were holding a peaceful protest around noon in connection with the alleged killing of six Naga men and two villagers from Langka.
The council identified the injured as Wikhonliu, 36, wife of Phengrongwi, who was among the six Naga men allegedly killed; Wilobou, 33, son of Masingbou; Chunwibou, son of Paojengbou; and Masenwangbou, 44, of Makhan.
Condemning the alleged action as unwarranted and reprehensible, the council said the incident had further eroded public trust in the government and demanded the immediate release of all detained villagers.
It also called for an impartial investigation, identification of those responsible and appropriate legal action under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Sections 115, 117 and 125, besides adequate medical assistance for those injured.
The council said peaceful dissent should not be met with coercion or brutality and asserted that it would continue its democratic agitation until the demands outlined in the United Naga Council (UNC) charter are met.
