IT News
Imphal, Sept 28:
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed strong opposition to the recent extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) in eight districts of Nagaland, as notified by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). According to the NSF, AFSPA has been extended for an additional six months in Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, and Peren districts, as well as in certain areas under the jurisdiction of 21 police stations across five other districts.
The NSF has condemned the Government of India’s decision, accusing it of disregarding the long-standing demands of the Naga people for the repeal of AFSPA. The Federation argued that AFSPA, with its extensive powers, has been used to oppress the Naga population for decades, undermining basic human rights, instilling fear, and enabling security forces to act with impunity.
Despite relative peace and progress in the Naga political dialogue, the NSF has claimed that the extension of AFSPA signals the Indian government’s unwillingness to recognize the aspirations and rights of the Naga people. The group stated that the imposition of the act disrupts the trust-building process between the Naga people and the government.
The NSF rejected the characterization of Nagaland as a “disturbed area,” asserting that the extension was made without consulting Naga civil society or representatives. The Federation has voiced concerns about the government’s sincerity in pursuing peace and reconciliation in the region.
Reiterating its demand for the immediate repeal of AFSPA from the Naga homeland, the NSF warned that the continued enforcement of the law would deepen the alienation of the Naga people from the Indian state and hinder a peaceful resolution to the Naga political issue.
The NSF pledged to intensify its efforts through democratic protests to ensure the voices of the Naga people are heard, calling on civil society organizations and well-wishers to unite against the law. The Federation has also appealed to international human rights organizations, the United Nations, and other concerned bodies to take note of the prolonged imposition of AFSPA and its impact on human rights in the region.
The NSF urged the Government of India to act responsibly and work toward resolving the Naga issue, beginning with the immediate withdrawal of AFSPA.
