The Naga Women’s Union (NWU) has issued a strong appeal for the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 (AFSPA), citing severe human rights violations impacting the peaceful lives of Naga communities, particularly women, children, and the elderly.

In their recent press release, the Naga Women’s Union criticized the application of AFSPA in Naga-inhabited regions, including Kamjong, Tengnoupal, and Chandel, arguing that these areas are suffering despite not being heavily disturbed. The union highlighted that AFSPA, designed for use in serious disturbances, is currently misapplied in these relatively calm areas.

Residents in these border villages have reported significant disruptions caused by the increased presence of security forces and the establishment of multiple check posts. These measures have led to frequent and intrusive checks, causing considerable inconvenience and mental distress for local residents, who also face impediments to their economic activities.

The NWU condemned the practices of the Assam Rifles, alleging that the excessive deployment and establishment of checkpoints in non-conflict zones violate UN Peacekeeping principles, which stress consent, impartiality, and restricted use of force.

The union claimed that security forces are operating without proper consultation with village leaders and are disrupting essential economic activities such as agriculture and small-scale businesses.

The press release emphasized that the misuse of AFSPA contradicts constitutional provisions and legal standards, which mandate that military force be used only in seriously disturbed areas and with Central Government sanction. The NWU called for security operations to comply strictly with established laws and respect human rights.

Additionally, the NWU argued that while addressing broader national security issues, such as drug trafficking and cross-border threats, the focus should be on protecting public safety without infringing on civilian rights. They urged the military to prioritize significant national and international security challenges while avoiding undue interference in the lives of innocent civilians.

In conclusion, the NWU reiterated its call for a political resolution to the Naga conflict, separate from the issues affecting ordinary citizens, and urged for the immediate repeal of AFSPA in Naga-inhabited areas to restore peace and safeguard human rights.

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