Assam Rifles personnel pay their last respects to a fallen soldier, who was killed in the IED blast near Khopanala in Nagaland's Chümoukedima district on July 13.
Dimapur, July 15 (MExN): Several civil society organisations, tribal bodies, student organisations and Naga political groups on July 15 condemned the improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Nagaland's Chümoukedima district that killed an Assam Rifles personnel and injured four others, urging authorities to conduct a swift and impartial investigation and bring those responsible to justice.
The Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) described the July 13 attack as a pre-planned ambush and a cowardly act that has no place in a civilised and harmonious society. It said the incident came at a time when various Naga underground groups were under ceasefire with the Government of India and alleged that external forces were attempting to disturb peace and create communal tension in the state.
The organisation appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. It also conveyed condolences to the family of the deceased Assam Rifles personnel, wished the injured a speedy recovery and urged law enforcement agencies to identify the perpetrators and ensure they face strict punishment.
The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) condemned the blast, describing it as an attempt to reintroduce violence into the Naga homeland at a time when the people were striving for peace, dialogue and an honourable political settlement. The federation called for a swift, impartial and comprehensive investigation to identify not only the perpetrators but also their collaborators, and appealed to all Nagas to remain united in safeguarding peace, communal harmony and the future of the state.
The International Human Rights Council, Nagaland State Chapter, also condemned the explosion near Khopanala, saying violence undermines the fundamental right to life, public safety and the foundations of peace. It said the people of Nagaland have endured decades of conflict while aspiring for a future based on justice, reconciliation and lasting peace. The council urged all stakeholders to reject violence, exercise restraint and resolve political, ideological and social differences through peaceful dialogue.
The Naga Hoho termed the blast a heinous act and said violence has no place in a peaceful and civilised society. While expressing condolences to the bereaved family and wishing the injured personnel a speedy recovery, it appealed to the state governments and the Assam Rifles to take immediate measures to prevent any deterioration of the peaceful atmosphere in Nagaland.
The NNC/FGN said the attack had created fear among the people and diverted attention from the genuine political aspirations of the Nagas. Reaffirming its commitment to the 1964 Indo-Naga Ceasefire Agreement, it called for an immediate end to acts of terror and urged all parties to return to dialogue and mutual respect in the interest of peace and stability.
The NSCN/GPRN (Reformation) said the attack appeared to be a deliberate attempt to derail the peaceful atmosphere and trust built between the Government of India and the Nagas during the ongoing political process. Reiterating its commitment to the ceasefire ground rules, it sought swift action to expose and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Western Sümi Students' Union (WSSU) said the blast not only targeted security personnel but also posed a serious threat to civilians, particularly students and daily commuters using the route. It appealed for a comprehensive investigation and strict legal action against those responsible, while reiterating that violence should never be allowed to undermine the state's peace and stability.
