SENAPATI, March 4: The North East Students’ Organization (NESO) has expressed deep concern over reports alleging bias by security forces in the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Representing student bodies across the Northeast, NESO has urged the Government of India and security agencies to uphold strict neutrality in managing the situation.
NESO’s statement follows accusations by groups such as the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), which alleged that central security forces had escorted certain factions, potentially threatening peace efforts and escalating tensions. If true, these actions would suggest a deviation from the forces’ core mandate of maintaining law and order impartially.
In their statement, NESO emphasized that the primary role of paramilitary forces should be to protect citizens and maintain law and order, not to show favoritism that could lead to further discord. The organization warned that any actions compromising neutrality by security forces could worsen the fragile situation, deepen mistrust, and fuel further unrest.
The Manipur crisis has already resulted in widespread violence, displacement, and a breakdown of trust among communities. NESO called for urgent humanitarian intervention, particularly the rehabilitation of displaced individuals, ensuring they can return to their homes with dignity and security.
The organization also demanded a fair and transparent investigation into the alleged bias of security forces to determine if any personnel had compromised their neutrality. Furthermore, NESO called on Assam Rifles and other central security forces deployed in the state to strictly adhere to their mandate and take actions that promote peace, rather than perpetuating divisions.
NESO’s appeal highlights the urgent need for responsible governance and unbiased law enforcement to restore stability in Manipur and prevent further polarization in the region. The organization concluded by stressing that the future of Manipur and the Northeast hinges on the collective ability to foster mutual respect and prevent manipulation by external forces with vested interests.
