Morung Express News
Dimapur | December 26
A committee will be instituted to deliberate whether to revoke or not to revoke the draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Nagaland.
Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio made the disclosure at a press conference, today, in Dimapur. Deputy CM, Y Patton and NPF Legislature Party leader and former CM, TR Zeliang were at the press conference held in the CM's residence.
Reading out from a prepared press note, Rio informed that the committee will be chaired by the Additional Secretary-NE, Union Ministry of Home Affairs and will include the Nagaland Chief Secretary and DGP, Nagaland Police as members.
It will also have the Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) and representative from the CRPF.
"The Committee will submit its report within 45 days and withdrawal of Disturbed Area and AFSPA from Nagaland will be based on the recommendations of the committee," said Rio.
The decision was made late on the night of December 23 in Delhi where the Chief Ministers of Assam and Nagaland met Union Home Minister, Amit Shah. Rio was accompanied by Patton and TR Zeliang.
Rio said that a Court of Enquiry will initiate "disciplinary proceedings against the army unit and army personnel," who were involved in the Oting killings. He added that action will be taken on the "basis of fair enquiry" and "the identified persons who will face the enquiry will be placed under suspension with immediate effect."
Earlier on December 20, the Indian Army had announced an "inquiry" into the Oting killings.
The internal army inquiry will run parallel to the Special Investigation Team set by the Nagaland state government.
On this, Zeliang added that the Union Home Ministry "will examine both the reports and find out the truth."
While pledging employment to the next of kin of the deceased victims on compassionate grounds on the "basis of eligibility," Rio said that at the December 23 meeting, the Nagaland ministerial team asked Shah to "replace the Assam Rifles unit stationed in Mon with immediate effect" as demanded by the civil society.
According to Rio, Shah's response to the request was "positive." This implies transferring out the existing AR unit in Mon and bringing in another AR unit.
"The state government appeals to all sections to remain calm and to continue to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. The democratic and peaceful nature of the civil society groups, tribal hohos and mass based organisations in our collective quest for justice and truth has been well received and has created a positive image of the Naga people to the rest of the global community," Rio said.
