Nagaland: Death toll rises to 15, murder case against Indian Army
The death toll has risen to 15 in the Indian Army's re-firing on protesters protesting the killing of six workers in Nagaland on Saturday.
Security forces opened fire on protesters in the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland on Sunday evening, killing another civilian. So far 14 civilians and one soldier have been killed in the incident.
According to the international media, there is an atmosphere of extreme tension in the state and the authorities have enforced section 144 in the area. Curfew has been imposed in the affected district while internet and phone services have been suspended in most areas.
According to the report, locals and various organizations lit candles for the slain civilians.
The violence erupted on Saturday when paramilitary forces opened fire, killing six workers. Locals marched towards the military camps in protest of the incident, during which seven more people were killed when Indian troops opened fire on protesters.
The state government has registered a murder case against the army, alleging in the FIR that the forces deliberately killed civilians. According to the police, the military unit did not kill the civilians by mistake but by a systematic plan.
It may be recalled that in some northeastern states of India and Kashmir, the controversial law of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act is in force. Under the law, the military has broad powers to conduct search operations, arrest, beat and kill anyone without prior notice, and against the military unless the central government allows it. No action can be taken.
Criticizing the government, Chief Minister Nefio Rio said that the central government extends the law every year by declaring the state a disturbing area.
Expressing regret over the incident, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah said that a high level investigation into the incident was awaited and the government was keeping a close eye on the latest situation.