Photo Courtesy Zhazho Miachieo
Mon, December 8 (MExN): Civil organisation offices flew their flags at half mast, school children wore black badges and all business establishments and vehicles displayed black flags as Mon district observed the second day of mourning on Wednesday.
The Konyak Union which had announced a 7-day mourning period for the civilians who were killed by security forces on December 4 at Oting issued a statement acknowledging the concern and solidarity of both Central and State Governments towards the victims, by committing to financially support them. “These commitments should be fulfilled in letter and spirit,” it said, adding that the KU would strictly monitor and ensure that the relief reaches the victims. We will not rest until justice is delivered and peace restored, it added.
It also imposed restrictions on the press fraternity, asking the press “not to interfere or cover stories and news coverage at ground zero (Oting Village); so as to pave way for smooth investigation and also not to create unnecessary disturbances towards the bereaved family members.” It also informed that a press conference would be held on December 11, 12:00 pm at the KU Office, Mon Hq.
Meanwhile, it stated that the entire Konyak community had mutual trust towards the Indian army and the Indian Union for almost 60 years and maintained peace and tranquility amongst the community. However, it said, the hard earned trust and expectations were destroyed on December 4 when the 14 innocent civilian lives were martyred, “which clearly indicate their actual motives and intentions” of the custodians and guardians was “just to be awarded with promotions and other gallantry medals.”
