DC Chumoukedima, Polan John addressing during the review meeting of Law & Order situation at DPDB’s Conference Hall, Chumoukedima on May 26. (DIPR Photo)
• Village councils demand arrest of accused within 48 hours
• Crime is a crime, will take actions accordingly, says police
CHÜMOUKEDIMA, MAY 27 (MExN): A coordination meeting was held at the DPDB Conference Hall in Chümoukedima on May 26 to review the law and order situation in the aftermath of the May 23 incident at Unity Village. The meeting was attended by representatives of Village Councils, GBs (Gaon Buras), Police and security agencies.
According to a DIPR report, at the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Chümoukedima, Polan John, termed the May 23 incident as "unfortunate and disturbing." He noted that such incidents suggest a disregard by factional groups for public opinion. “Across all tribal sections, forums, unions, and general citizens, the call is for peace. Negotiations with the Government of India are at an advanced stage, and there are rules in place which must be followed,” he stated.
The DC described the incident as a violation of the ceasefire ground rules, specifically pointing out that movement of cadres outside designated camps with arms is illegal and punishable under law. “If factions continue to ignore public sentiments, public confidence and trust in them will be eroded. As government functionaries, we will be compelled to escalate the matter to the Ceasefire Monitoring Group in case of repeated violations,” he stated.
He appreciated the village councils and GBs for voicing their concerns and suggestions, and assured that a detailed report from the police would be submitted to higher authorities for necessary action.
Emphasizing on ceasefire rules, the DC said a clear cut direction from the ceasefire ground rules is needed. While stating that as government machineries, it has limitations on their part, the DC however, assured to coordinate, assist and provide necessary guidance, and urged the councils to forward their representation and ultimatum.
The DC expressed hope that the meeting would lead to better coordination between the administration, police, and security agencies, and urged village authorities to remain in close contact with officials to ensure prompt response in case of future incidents.
Security and police representatives informed the meeting that operational steps were taken following the incident, but highlighted constraints due to ceasefire ground rules. They said their attempts to approach the Ceasefire Monitoring Office were unsuccessful as they were not granted access.
"The government is awaiting a detailed report. Once submitted, further instructions from higher authorities will follow," they said while adding, “Crime remains crime, the police are aware of it and will take actions accordingly.”
They also noted the widespread problem of extortion but lamented the lack of formal complaints. “We urge leaders and citizens to cooperate and support us in addressing legitimate crimes,” they said. Police further assured that efforts were underway to arrest those responsible for the May 23 incident.
Representatives from the village councils expressed deep concern and collective resentment over the incident. Stating that the safety of citizens was their top priority, they said they had resolved to take stern action, including cancellation of land pattas, issuing non-cooperation directives, expulsion of individuals from villages, and opposition to the establishment of designated camps within village boundaries.
The villagers also warned that if similar incidents occur again, they may be forced to take matters into their own hands. The councils resolved to file an FIR demanding the arrest of the accused within 48 hours and urged the district administration to take strong preventive measures to avoid recurrence.
