Kohima [Nagaland], December 9 (HornbillTV): The state Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said that the unfortunate incident at Oting is a clear case of misuse and abuse of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

“It is a law having colonial genesis which is violative of human rights. It legitimizes killing on mere suspicion” Rio said.

Speaking at the tribute programme for the Tiru firing victims in Kohima, Rio said that this is not the first time where civilians have had to bear the brunt of the draconian law. “Nagaland and the Naga people have opposed this Act for decades and it is a demand that we will continue to advocate for”, he stated.

The CM appealed to the Konyak brethren not to retaliate violently - not because they cannot, but because they will not; not because they are weak but because they are strong and courageous. 

“This is the time for the biggest Naga tribe to show the world that they also have the biggest heart,” Rio said. 

Rio also appealed to Naga people to shun the way of violence, and to all our political groups to say farewell to arms.

Unless we show and prove ourselves to be peace-loving and non-violent people, our demand for the repeal of AFSPA will carry less weight, he said.  “Let us say that we do not want AFSPA. But let us also show that we do not need AFSPA. Let us also make sure that we do not, in any way, allow any force to derail the hard-won peace process,” Rio stated.

Today we are saying, “Enough is enough!”. I also say with you, “Enough is enough!,” he reiterated.

The chief minister thanked all the Politicians and leaders who have spoken out for the Nagas in Parliament, news media and social media outlets.