Assam Rifles stop Naga Students’ Federation delegation at Myanmar border

A delegation from the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) was prevented from traveling to Naga-inhabited areas in Myanmar for a cultural exchange program by Assam Rifles personnel at the Avangkhu checkgate in Meluri district on September 19. Despite possessing reference letters for the trip, the group was stopped, prompting widespread condemnation from Naga organizations.

The Angami Students’ Union (ASU) described the stoppage as “insensible” and an infringement on the rights of Nagas living across the international border. The ASU further criticized the Assam Rifles, questioning if the action had the endorsement of the Government of India and noting that such conduct contradicts the force's image as “Friends of the hill people.”

Additionally, the NNC/FGN condemned the incident, stating that Indian military forces showed “no regard for basic humanitarian values and rights.” The organization argued that Naga communities have maintained kinship, trade, and social ties across the India-Myanmar boundary long before the establishment of the modern border and the Avangkhu checkgate. The NNC/FGN alleged that such restrictions and the militarization of the Naga homeland tarnish India's image as a democracy and continue a pattern of harassing civilians under the guise of law and order.