Ukhrul, June 7: The Katho Katamnao Long (KKL), the apex students’ body of the Katho area, has strongly condemned the alleged assault on its President and the use of force against civilians by personnel of the Assam Rifles during a protest held at Finch Corner and Shokvao Village on Saturday.
In a press statement issued on June 7, KKL accused Assam Rifles personnel of physically assaulting its President during the protest and described the action as “reprehensible, unjustifiable, and wholly unacceptable in a democratic society governed by the rule of law.”
According to the student body, the incident was not an isolated occurrence. KKL alleged that Assam Rifles personnel under the command of the Commanding Officer of the 40 Assam Rifles stationed at Shangshak carried out a forceful lathi-charge against unarmed civilians, including women, during a peaceful demonstration opposing the establishment of a temporary outpost at New Heaven.
The organization further claimed that women gathered at Finch Corner and Shokvao Village were subjected to physical force and that live rounds were fired in the New Heaven area in an attempt to disperse protesters. KKL also alleged that some security personnel involved in the incident appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.
The student body stated that a total of 20 women, along with the KKL President, sustained injuries during the confrontation. It described the incident as a serious violation of fundamental human rights and personal liberty, asserting that no security force is above the law or immune from accountability for actions against civilians.
Calling for solidarity from civil society organizations, particularly the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL), KKL urged immediate steps to identify and take action against those allegedly responsible for the incident.
In a significant escalation of its protest, KKL announced an indefinite non-cooperation movement against the Assam Rifles and declared the immediate suspension of vehicular movement on all roads and highways passing through Katho jurisdiction, including the movement of security personnel.
The restrictions, according to KKL, will remain in force until the Assam Rifles:
- Issues an official public apology for the conduct of its personnel;
- Withdraws the temporary outpost established at New Heaven; and
- Initiates strict disciplinary action against all personnel allegedly involved in the incident.
KKL stated that healthcare providers, emergency services, and accredited media personnel would remain exempt from the restrictions.
Reaffirming its commitment to justice, human dignity, and democratic rights, the student body said it would continue to pursue all lawful and peaceful means to ensure accountability for the events that transpired on June 7.
The situation has heightened tensions in the area, with local organizations closely monitoring developments and demanding a transparent inquiry into the allegations surrounding the confrontation.
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