Linguistic minority forum slams assault on construction worker

DIMAPUR — The Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) strongly condemned the July 31 assault on a construction worker in Kohima. According to a press release, the victim was allegedly subjected to violence, including being forced to jump or thrown from a four-story building, while some unauthorised youths demanded to see his Inner Line Permit (ILP).

The LMFN stated that the victim, 22-year-old Anowar Hussain, a bonafide Indian with a valid ILP card, was abused and assaulted by the youths. The forum condemned the “inhumane act” and demanded early justice and accountability for those responsible.

“In order to ensure the prompt arrest and trial of the offenders, we implore the government authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation. Promoting community safety and defending everyone's rights are crucial. No Indian should be harassed for identifying illegal immigrants or checking their ILP, regardless of their background,” the LMFN stated.

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It went on to state that people are becoming increasingly panicked as a result of rumours about Inner Line Permit (ILP) checking and frisking ILPs circulating in various corner in City and village areas.

The LMFN urged the authorities to take immediate action to preserve public confidence and restore peace and order, while demanding justice for the victim. Additionally, the forum emphasised that only authorised government agencies should conduct document checks on non-Naga Indian citizens, and that unauthorised persons should not do so under the pretext of verifying ILPs or detecting illegal immigrants.

“Also no non-Naga Indian labour or tourist should be harassed in our state because of any reason. To prevent similar occurrences or mistakes by any young activists in the future, we hope the government authorities will take necessary measures,” it added.