ITANAGAR, Sep 23: The Human Rights Law Network (HRLN) has submitted a  representation to the Director General of Police, Arunachal Pradesh, calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into the death of Lokhi Wangsu, a resident of Naitong village in Tirap District. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, involves what is believed to be an unjustified use of force by Assam Forest Police, leading to the tragic demise of an innocent civilian.
According to reports, on the morning of September 18 last, the deceased had gone to search for his missing cow in the Hukanjuri forest area, near the Assam-Arunachal border, from where he was allegedly arrested by that Assam forest police personnel and subjected to physical torture, and ultimately shot dead. Multiple gunshot wounds were found on his body, raising grave concerns about the use of excessive force.
The incident has left the community in a state of profound sorrow and anger, and there is mounting anxiety regarding the unwarranted use of force by Assam Forest Police under the pretext of combating illegal timber activities. The Constitution of India guarantees the right to life and liberty to every citizen, and such incidents raise serious questions about the violation of these fundamental rights by law enforcement agencies, the Human Rights Law Network (HRLN) said.
Further, HRLN has called for immediate action and accountability through independent investigation. Suspension of all officers involved in the incident pending the outcome of the investigation and appropriate legal action if misconduct or wrongdoing is confirmed. Providing necessary support including compensation to the grieving family.
This tragic incident has generated immense distress and concern among local residents, and it is imperative that swift and decisive action be taken to address the issue. Additionally, it has come to light that similar incidents may have occurred in the past but went unreported. The loss of an innocent life is a matter of grave significance that cannot be ignored. Justice must be served, and steps must be taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur, the rights body said.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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