The Angami Students’ Union (ASU) has called for an immediate shutdown and an indefinite bandh across all Angami-inhabited areas starting today, following an alleged assault on the ASU President by personnel of the 13th Assam Rifles. The incident reportedly took place around 12:30 PM near the Assam Rifles camp at D Block, Kohima, where the ASU President was allegedly attacked without provocation. According to the ASU, the President narrowly escaped serious injury when an Assam Rifles jawan attempted to strike him with a rifle butt.
In response, the ASU has not only called for a bandh but has also issued a directive for all paramilitary forces, particularly the Assam Rifles, to avoid entering Angami areas. Furthermore, the union has demanded that the Assam Rifles camp at D Block suspend operations until further notice. The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly condemned the assault, describing it as a violation of fundamental rights and an affront to the Naga community. NSF President Eno Khriesamhalie David Mere reiterated the call for the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which the NSF claims provides cover for such acts of violence.
The NSF has urged its units to support a non-cooperation movement against the armed forces and demanded the removal of the Assam Rifles camp from Kohima, citing public inconvenience and the growing threat to community leaders.