Konyak Union (KU), along with Konyak civil society organizations (CSOs), observed the “3rd Oting Massacre Black Day” at its headquarters in Mon Town on December 5.
In a press note, KU president Tingthok Konyak and press & media secretary Nokzei Konyak said that the solemn event marked the tragic memory of the December 4, 2021 massacre, in which 14 innocent civilians from Oting village were killed by the 21 Para Special Forces, based in Jorhat.
During the commemoration program, speeches were delivered by leaders of KU president, Konyak Nyupuh Sheko Khong president Ponglem Konyak, Konyak Students’ Union president Atem Konyak, and Oting Union, Mon Town president Yangpho Konyak.
The CSOs reiterated their unwavering demand for justice for the victims. The CSOs stressed that the government of India must ensure swift and transparent justice without delay or excuses, and accountability for those responsible.
They also criticized the misuse of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which they argued shielded perpetrators from accountability.
The massacre, they emphasized, was not an act national defese or courage but a cowardly and unprofessional action against unarmed civilians, which has brought shame to the otherwise valiant and disciplined armed forces of India.
Demands: KU and CSOs demanded justice and accountability for the perpetrators. They also demanded full compensation for the victims’ families and adequate rehabilitation and support for the injured, particularly those left permanently disabled.
KU said that the observance served as a solemn reminder of the need for a just and humane society where such tragic incidents are not repeated and respects the sanctity of civilian life.