An appeal for peace in Kashmir Valley from Nagas

Featured image by Masood Hussain

The ongoing situation in Kashmir has seen sufferings and ordeals for over 60 days now. Reports of the death of many civilians from the valley have been coming out regularly. Despite calls for restraint in using forces upon the civilians from civil societies and concerned individuals, the casualty of innocent civilians is increasing. Human lives have been reduced to a mere number to be counted. Kashmir has a disputed history entangled between India vs Pakistan, and self determination of the people.

Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) got tabled and implemented for the first time in the Naga Hills to quell the uprising of the Nagas in 1958. Later AFSPA was spread to neighbouring states and Kashmir. As per reports from various sources, the implementation of AFSPA contrary to its objective has rather increased the spread of insurgents and human rights violation- death of civilians, sexual violence against women, mental trauma, fake encounters etc. Experience of militarisation is similar among Nagas, Kashmiris, Meiteis, Kukis and other indigenous people.

So in this light, we as concerned Nagas who believe in humanity and social justice, empathise with the plight of Kashmiris in the ongoing event. We condemn the use of pellets in controlling the crowd leading to scores of blindness and other fatal injuries. We also like to highlight the blockade of mobile network, internet, unavailability of basic amenities, clamping down of press freedom, inconveniences to hospital staff, closure of educational institutions etc. in this ongoing stand-off in Kashmir. Generations of Kashmiris have already suffered a lot; we pledge the Indian government to open dialogue with Kashmiris for peace, security and harmony towards a lasting solution. Repealing of AFSPA should be given a chance by incorporating recommendations from Justice Jeevan Reddy Committee and the UN Special Rapporteur.

We stand in solidarity with Kashmiris. A list of Nagas students, scholars, academicians and other concerned citizens from Nagaland and Manipur –

1.     J. R. Kamei
2.     Dr D. Apao
3.     Roderick Wijunamai
4.     Dr Aphun Kamei
5.     Rocky Peshai
6.     John Gangmei
7.     Maxwell Saka
8.     Gracy Aye
9.     Zajano Z. Yanthan
10.  ML Ningnim
11.  Khalter Khampa Anal
12.  Veilou Paotei
13.  Shanjamo Ezung
14.  Dr Raille Rocky
15.  Thansing Zingkhai
16.  Lucy Lolia
17.  Hillbird Chalai
18.  Philemon Shangne
19.  Albert Povah
20.  Wungnaongam Rangmungna
21.  Mavei Vemai
22.  Dr Paode Pao
23.  Kajikho Mao
24.  Khevito Elvis Lee
25.  Puche Shiu
26.  Koko Lamkang
27.  Sinmi Rungsung
28.  Duanguanglung Kamei
29.  Chanthingla Horam
30.  Bendangrenla Longkumer
31.  SP. Ngamreiphy
32.  M.S. Jerome

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