NEW DELHI: Congress on Sunday attacked the Centre over the killing of civilians during a botched anti-insurgency operation in Nagaland, with former party chief Rahul Gandhi saying the government must give a “real reply” to what the home ministry is doing when “neither civilians nor security personnel are safe in our own land”.
At least 14 civilians were gunned down by security forces in Nagaland’s Mon district, police said on Sunday, adding that it is investigating whether the incident was a case of mistaken identity. One soldier also died in the rioting that followed.
“This is heart wrenching. GOI must give a real reply…” Rahul gandhi tweeted. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, tweeted: “Heartbreaking news coming out of Nagaland, my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families. They deserve justice.”
In a tweet from its official handle, Congress said, “Tragic news from Nagaland is highly distressing. Repeated incidents of violence in northeast is a clear indication of Modi govt’s failure to maintain law & order & protect national security.” “PM & HM, why is Govt unable to ensure safety of our civilians & security personnel?” it asked.