Dimapur, Oct 10 (MExN): Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (South) has expressed solidarity to the fast-unto-death stand of “Iron Lady” Irom Chanu Sharmila, against the draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act (1958).
“NPMHR acknowledge and support the strong determination of Sharmila against human right violation in Manipur. NPMHR would also like to enlighten the people of the northeast struggling for self-determination under the Indian colonial rule, that the Nagas were people who have strongly resisted the military rule/occupation and were tortured inhumanly by the Indian security forces since 1950s” stated an NPMHR release issued through Phamhring Sengul, Convener (South)
Nagas in its struggle for self-determination have fearlessly resisted the Indian rule and even took the Indian armed forces to court on violation of human rights during “Operation Bluebird” in 1987 at Oinam village, it stated. “The evils of AFSPA are still very fresh in the minds of the Nagas yet with humble prayer look towards lasting peace and honorable solution through healing of our spirits” the NPMHR reminded.
The organization also expressed resentment that the Government of Manipur ‘is not fair in delivering equal justice to every section of the people in the state.’ “The Ibobi-led government should apologize to the people of Manipur for all unhealthy development in terms of racial discrimination (no Nagas in Manipur?), bias treatment (relax AFSPA in Imphal area?), delayed or denied justice (Rajkhowa inquiry report?) and above all creating chaos and distrust amongst the various ethnic communities in the present state of Manipur and lots more only for their vested narrow political interest” the NPMHR said adding that violation of rights can be committed by anybody “but more liable as politicians and law makers.”
The NPMHR appealed to all state and non-state armed forces to value human lives, with respect and dignity.
