Kohima, August 1 (MExN): The Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) has condemned the alleged assault of a construction worker in Kohima on July 31, reportedly by unidentified individuals who were questioning his Inner Line Permit (ILP) status.
In a statement issued by the Forum’s Chairman Bishnu Bhattacharjee and Press & Media Incharge Anand Gurung, the LMFN said, “The Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland vigorously denounces the vicious assault on a construction worker on 31st July at Kohima, the victim was allegedly coerced into jump or thrown out from a four-storied building in Kohima while his Inner Line Permit (ILP) was reportedly being asked to varify by some unauthorised youth.”
The Forum identified the victim as 22-year-old Anowar Hussain, describing him as a bonafide Indian citizen possessing a valid ILP.
Terming the incident as a “barbaric act,” the LMFN said, “We the LMFN, strongly condemn this inhumane act and call for early justice and accountability for those responsible.”
Calling for a thorough investigation into the matter, the Forum urged government agencies to ensure that the culprits are arrested and tried promptly. “In order to ensure the prompt arrest and trial of the offenders, we implore the government authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation. Promoting community safety and defending everyone's rights are crucial. No Indian should be harassed for identifying illegal immigrants or checking their ILP, regardless of their background,” it stated.
The Forum also expressed concern over rising public anxiety following circulating rumours about random ILP checks in different parts of Kohima and surrounding villages. “People are becoming increasingly panicked as a result of rumors about Inner Line Permit (ILP) checking and frisking ILPs circulating in various corner in City and village areas. In order to preserve public confidence and restore peace and order, we ask that the authorities act immediately,” the Forum said.
Stating that only authorised government agencies should conduct ILP checks, the Forum asserted, “We demand justice and stand with the victim.” It appealed to the state government to take appropriate steps to prevent such incidents in future.
