Tension gripped Nagaland on Sunday as 13 civilians were killed in a case of “mistaken identity” when a counter-insurgency operation went amiss in Tiru village of Mon district. A jawan was also killed in the incident.
Giving details, the Indian Army in an official release said: “Based on credible intelligence of likely movement of insurgents, a specific operation was planned to be conducted in the area of Tiru, Mon District, Nagaland. The incident and its aftermath is deeply regretted. The cause of the unfortunate loss of lives is being investigated at the highest level and appropriate action will be taken as per the course of law. The security forces have suffered severe injuries in the incident including one soldier who succumbed to the injuries.”
The army has instituted a court of inquiry on the firing.
The incident angered villagers who came out in protest, claiming that the youth were innocent and were returning from the nearby coal fields. Several security vehicles were torched by irked villagers and the army had to use force to control the irate mob.
Condemning the incident, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said: “The unfortunate incident leading to killing of civilians at Oting, Mon is highly condemnable. Condolences to the bereaved families & speedy recovery of those injured. High level SIT will investigate & justice delivered as per the law of the land. Appeal for peace from all sections.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his condolences over the incident and said a high-level SIT constituted by the state government will thoroughly probe this incident “to ensure justice to the bereaved families”.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has also expressed grief over the deaths and tweeted, “I express my condolence to the bereaved families and pray for speedy recovery of the injured. Hope the high-level SIT will bring out the truth & help ensure justice.”
Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee has demanded a thorough investigation into the killing of civilians. “Worrisome news from #Nagaland. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those who were injured. We must ensure a thorough probe into the incident and ensure that all victims get justice!” Banerjee tweeted.
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