Rengma-Karbi violence
Kohima: The NSCN (I-M) has accused the Assam government of ‘turning a blind eye’ to the plight of the Rengmas in Karbi Anglong many of whom have been killed and rendered homeless in the recent violence by Karbi militants.
In a statement, NSCN (I-M) home minister T T Among said the ‘callous’ attitude of Assam government towards Rengma Nagas in Karbi Anglong should be condemned by all.
He said the heavy militarisation of the Rengma inhabited areas could be detrimental to the security of the people. He asked Assam government to ‘activate and restraint’ Karbis and their militants from creating further unwarranted situation in the region.
He added that the Assam government must without delay establish the ‘rule of law’ and take immediate steps to initiate confidence building measures.
Among also said the people living in present Assam have their own histories and the inhabitants must live respecting each other’s rights. ‘Despising the rights of other and trying to rule by might over others would create endless problem to the whole region in the days to come,’ he said.
He pointed out that the Karbi-Rengma Naga conflict was an outcome of ‘hegemonic power’ sought by Karbis on Rengma Nagas and others.
Stating that facts must be acknowledged, Among said Rengma Nagas have never created a deliberate situation in the region at any time including the recent turmoil wherein they have been attacked and rendered homeless.
Karbi students’ body accuses NRHPF : Meanwhile, the Karbi Students Association (KSU), Bidyasing Teron faction, has condemned Naga Rengma Hills Protection Force (NRHPF) for justifying its action of killing nine Karbi youths on December 28 last and later branding them as ‘arms runners’.
In a press release issued by KSA President Bidyasing Teron, sent to media here last night, claimed that those killed ‘blind folded with their hands tied’ were youth comprising of students and labourers. ‘We, the peace loving people and organizations condemn the killing of innocent Rengma villagers and the destruction of their houses on December 27. Whoever did these was anti-Karbi.
We demand a high level inquiry into the incident and punishment for the guilty,’ he said. Teron also accused both NRHPF and Rengma Naga Peoples’ Council (RNPC) of maligning the image of Karbi community by accusing the whole community for ‘killing and destruction.
Teron further pointed out that ‘law and order’ of the district was not controlled by Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, but the Assam Government, which has to take action on its own and the council should not be blamed for the current situation.
‘It appears that the Assam Government is incapable of protecting its peoplethe release said. (UNI)