ITANAGAR, 11 Jun: The North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) on Thursday condemned the killing of six Naga men from Konsakhul Naga village in Manipur and demanded a swift, transparent and impartial probe into the incident, along with the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
Expressing shock over reports that the victims were allegedly tortured before being killed and mutilated, the apex students’ body of the Northeast said the incident reflected the deteriorating law and order situation in the violence-hit state, and underscored the urgent need for justice and accountability.
In a statement, the NESO extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the people of the village, saying it stood in solidarity with those who had lost their loved ones in the “cruel and senseless” act of violence.
The organisation urged the authorities to ensure that every person involved in the crime, irrespective of affiliation or status, is identified, arrested and brought to justice without delay, warning that failure to act would further embolden perpetrators of violence.
The six victims, all residents of Konsakhul Naga village, had reportedly been abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village on 13 May. Their dismembered remains were recovered nearly a month later on 10 June, triggering widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the continuing ethnic violence in Manipur.
Referring to the prolonged conflict in the state, the NESO said it has consistently advocated peace, dialogue and reconciliation over the past three years and has repeatedly appealed for the protection of innocent civilians.
However, despite the deployment of large numbers of central security forces, the situation has continued to worsen, it said.
Reiterating that lasting peace can only be achieved through justice, accountability and equal protection for all communities, the organisation urged the Centre to act decisively to restore public confidence, ensure the safety of citizens, and end the culture of impunity fuelling violence in Manipur. (PTI)