Kohima: The Isak-Muivah led National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) has expressed strong objections following the Indian Supreme Court’s dismissal of criminal proceedings against the army personnel involved in the Oting massacre.
This incident, which occurred on December 4, 2021, saw the killing of innocent civilians by security forces in Oting village, Mon District.
In a statement, the NSCN-IM condemned the Supreme Court’s decision, characterising it as a grave miscarriage of justice. They recalled the tragic events of December 4, 2021, when, despite an ongoing ceasefire since August 1, 1997, the Indian Army indiscriminately opened fire on civilians they mistakenly believed to be militants. The attack resulted in the deaths of six innocent Naga civilians and eight protesters.
The NSCN-IM criticised the Indian state’s militarised approach under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), describing it as a draconian law that perpetuates violence and oppression against the Naga people. They accused the Indian authorities of perpetuating a cycle of terror and dehumanisation against the Nagas.
“Nagas are justice loving people. We cannot imagine how the perpetrators of a crime of
such enormity are allowed to go scot-free. Nagas would always stand and fight for
justiceagainst inhumanity and oppression,” the group said.
To the NSCN-IM, the Indian Supreme Court dismissal of criminal proceedings against thirty Indian army personnel involved in Oting Massacre on September 17, 2024 comes as a rude shock to the Nagas.
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They described the decision as a denial of justice for the victims.
“Amongst others, the Oting Massacre was a clear violation of human rights. NSCN/GPRN stands with the victims and ensure that justice is done. No justice loving
people who value human rights can forget the behavior of the Indian Army that was
reckless in the extreme, till justice is delivered,” it said.
Also Read | Global Naga Forum objects SC ruling on Oting killings; seeks review petition