Union Minister Amit Shah expressed regret for the deaths of 14 civilians in Nagaland and called it a case of mistaken identity on Monday. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to investigate the incident, he added.
Addressing parliament over the Nagaland security operation, in which 14 civilians were killed, Amit Shah said that the SIT report will be submitted within a month. The government has extended
its condolences to the families of the deceased.
"The government of India expresses deep regret over the unfortunate incident in Nagaland and also expresses deep condolences to the bereaved families," he added.
"In the evening of 4 December, a team of 21 Indian Army para-commandos planned an ambush based on information received by the Indian Army about insurgent movement near Tiru village
in the Tizit area of Mon district. A car approached the location during the ambush and was signalled to stop," Shah said.
The Home Minister further explained that "the vehicle, which was trying to flee and was suspected of carrying insurgents, was shot upon, killing six of the eight people on board. However,
it was later discovered that it was a case of mistaken identity."
"Army forces escorted the two people who sustained injuries to medical facilities.”
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Shah also detailed the incident that occurred the day following the unsuccessful ambush.
“On Sunday evening, an enraged crowd attacked the Assam Rifles company operating base, forcing soldiers to open fire, killing one civilian,” he added.
The union minister described situation as sensitive but under control.
“Yesterday, the situation was observed. MHA promptly dispatched the Additional Secretary in Charge of the Northeast to Kohima, where he met with the Chief Secretary, other senior officials
and paramilitary force's top officers today. The incident has been thoroughly examined.”
The home minister went on to say that the government is keeping a close eye on the issue and that necessary steps are being made to restore peace in the region "as soon as possible."
The Nagaland Police have filed a murder charge against the Army's 21st Para Special Force for allegedly firing on people, while many tribal organisations have called for protests against
security forces' actions.
In Mon town, restriction orders under Section 144 of the CrPC have been imposed.