KOHIMA: The Angami Students’ Union has reiterated its stance against any collaboration with the Indian armed or paramilitary forces.
Aligning with the directive issued by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), the students’ union asked individuals and unions “not to accept any assistance” from the Indian Armer Forces within its jurisdiction.
The directive highlighted the Angami community’s desire for autonomy and self-reliance, urging both individuals and unions to steer clear of external influences, especially from the armed forces.
Additionally, strict rules were set regarding event participation.
Individuals and unions were told not to invite the armed forces to any gatherings within Angami jurisdiction.
They were also barred from attending or joining in any official events organised by the armed forces.
In a statement released on Saturday, the union vehemently condemned the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) of 1958, denouncing it as a draconian measure imposed on their homeland.
Labelling the actions taken by armed forces under the AFSPA as “cowardly”, the union highlighted the “decades-long torment endured by innocent Nagas”.
They called for the immediate repeal of AFSPA and urged for the Supreme Court’s intervention to restore the human rights of the Nagas by abolishing the Act.
Furthermore, the Students’ Union cautioned all Indian armed forces stationed in Angami-inhabited areas to “refrain from actions that could provoke situations contrary to the issued directive”.
The Union declared its intention to mobilise all its networks to ensure strict compliance with the resolutions set forth by both the Naga Students’ Federation and the Angami Students’ Union.