3 Naga bodies set ’48-hour deadline’ for justice over assault of youths by Meitei outfit

Imphal, Nov 2 2024-

Three influential Naga organisations on Friday set a ’48-hour deadline’ for the Manipur government demanding justice for two Naga youths who were reportedly “brutally beaten up”, allegedly by the radical Meitei group “Arambai Tenggol” in Imphal.

The Naga People’s Organisation, Senapati District Students’ Association, and Senapati District Women’s Association issued a joint statement setting up a 48-hour deadline to the state government and said that they would continue to pursue justice for the two Naga youths.

“The Manipur government must deliver justice to both victims without delay within 48 hours.

“Failure to do so would leave us no option but to pursue further action to safeguard our community. We also call upon all citizens of the district to remain vigilant and ready to unite in the pursuit of justice for our Naga brothers,” the three Naga bodies submitted.

Strongly condemning the assault by “Arambai Tenggol”, the Naga bodies claimed that the Meitei body violently assaulted V. Hrangao Blesson Poumai and Dalou Poumai on Thursday at Lamshang in Imphal.

“In addition, a sum of Rs 61,400 was seized from the two youths by the outfit at gunpoint. Despite producing proof of their identities, they were repeatedly threatened and assaulted with automatic rifles, violating basic human rights and undermining fundamental values of life, respect, and dignity. This egregious act of violence has no place in our modern society.”

The Naga bodies’ statement said that the assault on Blesson and Dalou constitutes a direct violation of their personal safety, dignity, and fundamental rights.

“It is not only an attack on two individuals but also an affront to the values of entrepreneurship, hard work, and community contribution. This behaviour undermines the principles of professionalism, respect, and peace that our society strives to uphold,” it said.

Amid the ethnic violence during the past around 18 months between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, some incidents occurred in Imphal involving Naga community people. (Agency)