Dimapur, July 2 (MExN): The Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) on Friday said that the repeated extension of the Armed forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) 1958 and the Disturbed Area Act (DAA) in Nagaland were tantamount to creating an atmosphere of distrust amid the ongoing peace process.
In a representation to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, the NMA protested the extension and questioned “the role of the State in allowing this Draconian Law to be extended, without any protest,” especially at a time when there is no armed confrontation and all NPGs and the people are patiently awaiting the Naga Accord to be signed.
“These repeated extensions of the AFSPA are tantamount to creating an atmosphere of distrust and indicates the total helplessness of the State police force, which is very misleading. Cases of extortion and other disturbances are under purview of the State police and should not be the reason for citing such an extension,” it said.
Stating that the Naga populace, including women and children have been victims of countless army atrocities, the NMA representation jointly appended by its President Abei-ü Meru and Joint Secretary Malsawmthangi Leyri, charged the Government of India of being insensitive to the sufferings and trauma that the ‘inhuman draconian law’ has brought over the decades.
It however, expressed hope that the elected leaders and representatives of Nagaland would be sensitive to the history of suffering and ensure that the AFSPA is lifted and not extended again.
It appealed to the government to reconsider their stand and move for repeal of the AFSPA at the earliest, if peace is to be sustained for the Naga future.
