WR Desk: The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM), has directed all Naga students, youths and the Naga populace to abstain from attending or participating in the India’s Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

According to Kashmir Media Service, ANSAM said that the directive was issued in accordance with the resolutions adopted at the 3rd Legislative Assembly Session, held at Chandel Christian village in Chandel district on August 10.

In its directive, ANSAM cited what it described as the betrayal of the August 3, 2015 Framework Agreement, the militarization of Naga areas through the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), policies aimed at dividing the Nagas, suppression of Naga rights and denial of justice in cases of human rights violations and crimes against Nagas by the Indian government. ANSAM urged leaders of its constituent and subordinate units to strictly enforce the directive within their respective jurisdictions.

ANSAM also directed all educational institutions and offices to commemorate the 80th Naga Independence Day on August 14.

The decision to observe August 14 and abstain from August 15 celebrations was earlier adopted during the association’s 3rd Legislative Assembly. Reaffirming its commitment to an “acceptable, inclusive and honourable” Naga political solution based on the 2015 Framework Agreement signed between the Indian govt and the NSCN [National Socialist Council of Nagaland], the assembly urged New Delhi to demonstrate political will and implement the agreement in its “true letter and spirit”.

ANSAM said the agreement recognizes the flag and constitution as inalienable rights of the Nagas. 

The assembly also reiterated its opposition to the 6th Amendment Act and 7th Amendment Bill concerning the Autonomous District Councils introduced by the Manipur government in the state Legislative Assembly, stating that any activities undertaken under the two amendments would be opposed.

It further opposed what it described as any unconstitutional attempt by the Manipur and Indian governments to formulate or enact policies, programmes and legislation against the spirit of Article 371C and the interests of the Naga people.

On the prevailing situation in the state, ANSAM said the lives and property of Naga people were being threatened on a daily basis and stressed the need for unity among Nagas. It reiterated its support for movements spearheaded by the United Naga Council (UNC) and respective district apex Naga organizations.