Kohima, Feb 25: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly condemned the recent incidents of racial and physical attacks targeting women from India’s Northeastern region, including the alleged harassment of a young doctor from Nagaland at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences Gorakhpur.
According to reports, the doctor was allegedly stalked, subjected to obscene remarks and racial slurs, and physically intimidated, highlighting the persistent racial prejudice faced by Northeastern citizens. The Federation also referred to the harassment of three young women from Arunachal Pradesh in New Delhi, describing the incidents as part of a disturbing pattern of discrimination.
While acknowledging expressions of concern from authorities and public figures, the NSF asserted that condemnation alone was not enough. It demanded immediate arrests, impartial investigations and strict legal punishment for those responsible, warning that any leniency would embolden perpetrators and perpetuate racism and gender-based violence.
The Federation further urged the strict enforcement of anti-harassment and anti-discrimination laws, along with enhanced security arrangements at universities, hostels and workplaces where Northeastern students and professionals reside.
Stating that repeated targeting of Northeastern women reflected deep-rooted racial prejudice and ignorance, the NSF emphasised that the dignity, safety and equality of Northeastern citizens were non-negotiable and must be treated as a national priority. It also called on people from the region to remain vigilant and united, asserting that collective solidarity was key to confronting discrimination and safeguarding their rights.
