NESO to press NE MPs for AFSPA
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, October 10 2014 :
During a one-day North East Consultation on Human Rights with special reference to Armed Forces Special Powers Act held at the Tribal Research Institute here today, the North East Students' Organisation (NESO) has resolved to pressurize the MPs from the North East states to push for the repeal of AFSPA in Parliament.
Hosted by All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU), the seminar was attended by Auguster Jyrwa, General Secretary of Khasi Students' Union (KSU) along with student activists, human rights defenders, Meira Paibi, survivors of AFSPA violence.
NESO Secretary General Sinam Prakash, in his keynote address, pointed out that despite pressures to repeal AFSPA, the government of India is turning a blind eye to the issue.
During the inaugural function of the seminar, Radhabinod Koijam former Chief Minister of Manipur, who was the Chief Guest, shared his experiences of engaging the Prime Minster and the Home Minster on the issue of AFSPA.
He related how an Army General vehemently opposed to his suggestion, even though he could have the intelligence officials on his side.
Guest of Honour Yambem Laba, former member of Manipur State Human Rights Commission narrated the story of how he along with his friend moved the Supreme Court of India to challenge AFSPA in 1980 and also encouraged the student community not to shy away from India but to engage with them even if you do not agree.
Patshangbam Sonamani, President Manipuri Association North East India was the other guest of honour.
Mr.Samuel Jyrwa, Chairman NESO, called AFSPA a manifestation of racial discrimination against the North East people and emphasized the need to repeal such a draconian law.
He also pointed out that such consultation will be held in all the seven sister States of the NE before the next Parliament session.
The business session was a chaired by Lokendra Arambam, senior citizen.
Seram Rojesh, Anjulika Samon and Thagjam Homen presented expert papers.