SENAPATI, Dec 23: The Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), the Mao Students’ Union (MSU), and the Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me (PNTM) have strongly condemned the violent assault and harassment of SDSA executives on December 22, at around 9:00 PM near the Gamgiphai Kuki check post. The incident, described as a brutal attack by Kuki volunteers, has sparked outrage among the organizations, which have demanded accountability and immediate action.

In a press statement, the SDSA denounced the assault as “unacceptable” and detrimental to the spirit of unity and cooperation among communities. It revealed that the SDSA executives, traveling in a vehicle with a clearly marked association nameplate, were physically attacked and subjected to verbal abuse despite repeatedly identifying themselves.

SDSA strongly rebuked the act, questioning the intent behind the vandalism of their official vehicle. The association also expressed concern over the failure of the Kuki community to honor the Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the Naga People’s Organization (NPO) and the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), which emphasized mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

“The Senapati District Students’ Association won’t be a mute spectators to this type of atrocities which had been meted out to the citizens of the District not even sparing the leaders. Any eventualities or untoward incident flaring up due to this issue shall be solely held responsible by the perpetrators community,” the SDSA warned.

Similarly, the Mao Students’ Union (MSU) also strongly condemned the attack, describing the act of violence as an affront to the principles of honor, dignity, and peaceful coexistence.

“It is deeply troubling that leaders entrusted to champion justice and the welfare of youth have been subjected to such reprehensible abuse. This act undermines the values we stand for as a society,” the MSU stated.

MSU emphasized the malicious intent behind the vandalism of the SDSA’s official property and called for swift action against the perpetrators. It urged all communities to reject such disgraceful behavior and promote a spirit of respect and unity.

Additionally, the Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me (PNTM) echoed similar sentiments, strongly condemning the attack and calling it an act of aggression that threatens inter-community harmony and cooperation. “This unprovoked aggression not only undermines their work but also violates the principles of dialogue and peaceful coexistence, which are fundamental for resolving inter-community challenges,” it said.

The PNTM also expressed concerns about the repeated disregard for the Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed between the Naga People’s Organization (NPO) and the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) and questioned the sincerity of their enforcement. “It is deeply troubling that such incidents of violence continue despite these agreements, casting doubt on the commitment to their enforcement,” the statement read.

The PNTM also warned of serious consequences if the issue is not addressed promptly, holding the perpetrators and their community responsible for any future escalation.