Youth front, student body flay June 26 assault incident

DIMAPUR — The Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) and Ao Students' Union Dimapur (ASUD) have condemned the June 26 incident where a local customer Meyi Jamir was reportedly subjected to physical assault by non-local traders in Murgipatti, Dimapur.

In a press release, the WSYF asserted that any form of physical assault, intimidation, or threat to the safety, dignity, and well-being of local citizens by non-local individuals or business entities will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Also read: Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation condemns alleged assault in Dimapur

“WSYF extend this message in the strongest possible terms that our patience is not limitless. Our silence must not be misinterpreted as submission. The safety and security of our indigenous people is non-negotiable, and the WSYF will not remain a mute spectator to such cowardly and shameful acts,” the youth front stated.

Stating that non-local traders had long benefited from the peace, protection, and prosperity provided by their land and people, the WSYF however cautioned that if such generosity was met with violence and disrespect towards locals, it would be forced to take strong action.

“This is our final and uncompromising stance to all non-local traders operating in Dimapur and beyond: Conduct your business peacefully, lawfully and with respect.

“Stay within the bounds of trade. Do not interfere in matters that do not concern you. Do not provoke. Do not assault. Do not mistake our hospitality and silence for weakness or test the limits of our restrain,” the youth front cautioned.

“If such incidents repeat, be assured, strict and immediate consequences will follow. The WSYF will use every means necessary to ensure that such anti-local elements are identified, isolated and actions taken as per the law,” it added.

In a separate condemnation note, the ASUD stated that such an act of barbarism against an innocent customer is not only an assault on an individual but also a direct challenge to the peace and order of Dimapur.

The union declared that the incident marks an “ultimate ultimatum” for non-local traders, underscoring ASUD’s dedication to protecting locals' safety and well-being while promoting harmony.

“We want to make it unequivocally clear that this is an ultimate ultimatum to all non-local traders.

“Any further incidents of assault, harassment, or exploitation of our local populace will be met with uncompromising and decisive action from the Ao Students' Union Dimapur,” it affirmed.

Though the ASUD did not specify the exact nature of the “further action” it intends to take, the union indicated that it would be robust and aimed at ensuring justice for the victims and preventing recurrence of such incidents.

Additionally, the union urged the authorities to take swift and stringent action against the perpetrators of the recent assault and to ensure the safety of all citizens.

“The incident has once again brought to the forefront discussions about the conduct of certain traders and the need for peaceful coexistence in the bustling commercial hub of Dimapur,” it stated.