Ukhrul, Dec 23: Several Naga civil organizations have condemned the brutal attack on the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) executives at the Gamgiphai Kuki check post by Kuki volunteers.
The executives of the SDSA were allegedly physically assaulted and their vehicle bearing the nameplate of the body was deliberately vandalized by Kuki volunteers at Gamgiphai Kuki check post on December 22, 2024, at 9 PM.
The Senapati District Students’ Association has informed that it has unanimously constituted a committee named Senapati Action Committee (SAC) to deliver justice for the atrocity committed by the Kuki volunteers.
The Naga student body stated that the concerted attack on its executives by the assigned Kuki volunteers defied the Memorandum of Understanding between the NPO and CoTU signed on November 21, 2024. It then laid the blame on the Committee on Tribal Unity for the unfortunate incident and the consequences that may follow.
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The Naga People’s Organization (NPO) called the assault deeply troubling despite repeated MoUs between the NPO and the CoTU which were intended to ensure peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation among the two communities. It stated that it remained steadfast in fostering harmony and unity among all communities in the district but would not tolerate actions that undermine peace, dignity, and mutual respect.
“In addition to the physical assault, the volunteers reportedly questioned and vandalised the vehicle bearing the nameplate of the Students’ Union, an emblem of the SDSA’s status and its responsibilities within the society. Such actions demonstrated a blatant disregard for law, order, and mutual respect,” stated NPO.
Further, the NPO said it “unequivocally rebuked such barbaric acts against the SDSA officials, a respected district student body known for its leadership, integrity and commitment to the welfare of the communities. Such attack is not just an affront to the SDSA but also an insult to the principles of mutual understanding and cooperation that citizens strive to uphold collectively.”
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The Naga People’s Organisation in the aftermath of the latest attack raised “serious questions about the commitment of certain Kuki groups to honour the spirit of the agreements made in the recent past.”
It added that in case of any untoward action due to Kuki stakeholders’ failure to take responsibility for the assault, they would be held solely accountable for the consequences.
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Joining the condemnation, the Senapati District Women Association Manipur has sternly reprimanded the physical assault on the SDSA executives by the Kuki volunteers. It termed the brutal physical assault on the mandated student leaders as indefensible, utterly deplorable, and violated the principles of respect, dignity, and peace that the organization strives to uphold.
Standing in solidarity with the student body and its leaders, it called upon law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and take swift action against the perpetrators. “We demand that the perpetrators of this violent act be brought to justice immediately. It is imperative that such behavior is not tolerated and that accountability is ensured to maintain order and harmony,” it stated.
It further urged community leaders to work towards fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and prevent further escalation of violence.
Additionally, the SDWA maintained that it would not remain silent in the face of such actions and assured its support to SDSA and all efforts aimed at ensuring the safety and security of its leaders and community members. Besides, it warned that any acts of violence, intimation, and harassment would never be acceptable and that the organization would continue to advocate for justice, peace, and equality for all.
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The Naga Students’ Union Chandel also vehemently condemned the brutal assault terming it an utterly reprehensible act committed against student leaders who embodied the voices of their youth. It stated that the deliberate destruction of the vehicle marked a disturbing escalation underscoring the imperative of mutual respect, coexistence, and adherence to the MoUs between the NPO and the COTU.
The Naga body appealed to the Kuki community to assume responsibility for their actions and uphold the principles of unity and cooperation. It also urged all Nagas to unite in unwavering solidarity with their student leaders, demanding justice, accountability, and an end to such actions.
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Moreover, the student body maintained that the SDSA’s call to action must resonate across their communities, prompting them to pursue a peaceful resolution through dialogue, mutual respect, and collective progress. It further assured its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of its student leaders and communities.
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