Naga Students' Federation condemns alleged drone strike in Langkho and demands immediate revocation of AFSPA.
DIMAPUR — The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has condemned an alleged drone strike by the Indian Army on Langkho village in the Naga Self-Administered Zone, Myanmar, on October 3, which reportedly left two civilians, including a minor girl, injured and caused extensive damage to property.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the federation viewed the incident with grave concern and demanded immediate scrutiny, accountability, and an unconditional commitment to the protection of human lives.
The federation stated that the targeting of a civilian-populated area raises serious questions concerning the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution under international humanitarian law. It called upon the concerned authorities to issue a clear and transparent account of the incident and urged an independent, impartial, and credible investigation to establish facts, identify those responsible, and ensure accountability.
It added that civilian lives are not expendable and the suffering of innocent people cannot be dismissed as an unfortunate consequence of military operations.
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The NSF also expressed unequivocal opposition to the continued extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) across the Naga homeland.
The Ministry of Home Affairs extended the AFSPA regime with effect from October 1.
The federation viewed the extension with dismay, stating that the imposition and continuation of AFSPA for decades has become an instrument of fear, insecurity, and alienation among the Naga people. It stated that sweeping powers granted to armed forces, coupled with legal barriers to prosecution, have emboldened personnel to commit gross human rights violations and countless atrocities against innocent civilians.
Describing the continued normalisation of AFSPA as an affront to democratic accountability and human dignity, the NSF stated that repeated extensions perpetuate a disturbing reality in which militarisation overshadows principles of justice, peace, and reconciliation.
The student body demanded the immediate revocation of AFSPA alongside an end to military actions that place civilians at risk, calling on the Government of India to demonstrate commitment to peace through meaningful political engagement, respect for human rights, and effective investigation mechanisms.
It further urged the international human rights community and independent bodies to examine the Langkho incident and the broader implications of prolonged militarisation.