The Ao Students’ Union Dimapur (ASUD), in a press release issued by its president Imnatemsu Pongen and general secretary Tongpangnechet Kichu, said that as a responsible student body it continues to stand firm on matters that affect students, educators and the wider community.
ASUD stated that in light of recent events, it found it necessary to place on record its position on several pressing issues ranging from the denial of justice to teachers, the alarming rise of violence among youths, the unresolved Pimla murder case, and the fraudulent activities of individuals undermining indigenous rights.
ASUD reiterated that these were not isolated concerns but matters that directly affect the dignity, safety and future of the people, and further asserted that it would not remain a silent spectator but would actively voice out, support and act wherever justice and accountability were at stake.
On RMSA GT (2016 batch): ASUD said it stood in solidarity with the teachers in their rightful demand for justice. Despite clear rulings from both the High Court and the Supreme Court, the state government had failed to implement the court’s directives.
Stating that this deliberate delay amounted to contempt of court and disregard for teachers faithfully serving since 2016, ASUD condemned the negligence, extended full support to the teachers, and demanded immediate compliance with the court’s orders.
Rise of youth violence: ASUD condemned the incidents of bullying and assault among students and youths in Dimapur. Such acts, it said, had no place in society and undermined the values of discipline, respect and brotherhood.
ASUD cautioned that if any individual involved in such acts belonged to the Ao student community, the union would not remain a mere spectator but would take firm disciplinary measures, as no one would be allowed to tarnish the name and integrity of the community. It urged all students and youth to practice responsibility, empathy and respect toward one another.
Pimla murder case: ASUD extended support to the Zeliangrong Youth Organisation Nagaland (ZYON) and allied bodies in their pursuit of justice for the victim.
ASUD said it was disturbing that even after months the culprit continued to walk free on bail, while the victim’s family suffered without justice.
The union asserted that “justice delayed is justice denied”, and called upon the state government to release the forensic report, expedite the investigation and ensure accountability. It maintained that the dignity of the people and the credibility of institutions depended on how swiftly and sincerely justice was delivered.
Indigenous rights: ASUD also extended support to the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) in its move against alleged fraudulent activities of Nirmal Jain, including the acquisition of indigenous certificates, benami dealings and land exploitation.
ASUD noted that despite serious allegations, no meaningful response came from the authorities within the 15-day ultimatum given by DNSU.
It said that now, with DNSU initiating “concrete measures”, it was imperative that the state government and law enforcement act swiftly and transparently to uphold the rights of indigenous communities and the rule of law.
ASUD demanded that improperly acquired documents and properties be annulled, and that Nirmal Jain and all complicit entities be held accountable. It said that the dignity of Naga land rights and institutional integrity demanded no less.
ASUD said it extended full support to DNSU’s pursuit of justice and urged the authorities to expedite legal action, annul all improperly acquired documents and properties, and ensure that Nirmal Jain and any complicit parties were held accountable. It added that the dignity of Naga land rights and the integrity of institutions demanded nothing less.