“Appropriate action” would be taken, as per the law of the land, against those who are found guilty in the December 4 Nagaland killings. 

This was assured by Indian Army chief General MM Naravane. 

“Based on the findings of the inquiry, appropriate action will be taken. The law of the land is paramount and we will always uphold that and take action as required,” General Naravane said. 

Notably, at least 14 Nagaland civilians lost their lives after commandos of the 21 para-SF opened fire during a botched counter-insurgency operation. 

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“The incident at Oting village in Nagaland is highly regrettable. The eastern command ordered an inquiry, which is being headed by a Major General. The inquiry is in its final stages,” Army chief General MM Naravane said. 

The Army chief added: “We remain committed to the security of our countrymen, even during conduct of operations.” 

The killings in Nagaland on December 4 re-ignited the demand for immediate repeal of the armed forces special powers act (AFSPA) from the Northeast.