NSF demands AFSPA repeal, condemns alleged drone strike on Langkho

Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has demanded the immediate revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) across the Naga homeland, while condemning the alleged Indian Army drone strike on Langkho village in Myanmar’s Naga Self-Administered Zone (NSAZ) on October 3.In a statement issued on October 13, the NSF expressed grave concern over the reported incident, which it stated injured two civilians, including a minor girl, and caused extensive property damage.The federation called for immediate scrutiny and accountability, stating that the reported targeting of a civilian-populated area raised serious questions concerning the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution under international humanitarian law.It urged the concerned authorities to provide a clear and transparent account of the incident and called for an independent, impartial and credible investigation to establish the facts, identify those responsible and ensure accountability.The NSF also expressed strong opposition to the continued extension of AFSPA across the Naga homeland. It stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, had extended the Act with effect from October 1, 2026.Describing the continued enforcement of AFSPA as an affront to democratic accountability and human dignity, the federation alleged that the Act’s sweeping powers and legal safeguards against prosecution had contributed to human rights violations and insecurity among the Naga people.The NSF demanded the immediate revocation of AFSPA, an end to military actions that place civilians at risk, and meaningful political engagement by the Government of India.It also called on the international human rights community and relevant independent bodies to examine the Langkho incident and the broader implications of prolonged militarisation in the Naga homeland.