NESO Raises Concern Over Security Forces’ Role in Manipur, Calls for Neutrality

Ukhrul, Mar 4: The North East Students’ Organization (NESO) has expressed deep concern over recent allegations regarding the role of security forces in Manipur. Various groups, including the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), have claimed that security personnel have escorted certain groups, which could undermine the peace process and reflect bias in the ongoing crisis.

In a statement, NESO reaffirmed its commitment to peace and stability in the region and urged all stakeholders to act responsibly. It stated that if the allegations against central forces are true, such actions contradict efforts to restore normalcy and may further escalate tensions. The organization emphasized that paramilitary forces should remain neutral, ensuring their presence contributes to peace rather than division.

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The ongoing conflict in Manipur has already led to widespread suffering, displacement, and a breakdown of trust among communities. NESO called upon the Government of India to handle the situation with sensitivity and avoid any political approach that could prolong the crisis. It urged the Centre to take immediate steps to restore peace and prevent actions that may further destabilize the state.

Highlighting the humanitarian crisis, NESO reiterated its demand for the swift rehabilitation of displaced individuals. It stressed the need for urgent measures to ensure that affected families can return to their homes with dignity and security.

The organization also appealed to security agencies, particularly the Assam Rifles, to adhere strictly to their mandate of maintaining law and order without bias. Additionally, it urged the central government to take the allegations seriously and conduct an impartial investigation to hold accountable any personnel found guilty of compromising neutrality.

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NESO concluded by stating that the future of Manipur and the entire Northeast depends on fostering mutual respect and preventing external influences that seek to create divisions.

The NESO consists of eight major student organizations, each representing one of the northeastern Indian states. They are All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Garo Students’ Union (GSU), All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), and Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF).