ANTA urges thorough investigation into vandalisation of its office

June 19, 2023 32 Views No Comment

• BAN, NTWTA flay incident, extend solidarity
• One detained on suspicion

Kohima, June 19 (MExN): A day after its Kohima Headquarter office was allegedly vandalised by ‘unknown miscreants,’ the All Nagaland Taxi Association (ANTA) today condemned the incident and urged for thorough investigation into the incident.

The union on Saturday had registered a First Information Report regarding the incident at the North Police Station, Kohima.

Sources at the North PS Kohima, meanwhile, informed on Sunday a person has been detained in connection with the vandalism of the ANTA office. However, apart from stating that the concerned individual was detained on suspicion, no additional information was provided.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued by its president Dziesevituo Solo and general secretary, Meyieho Hibo, the ANTA vehemently condemned the ‘obnoxious act’ and urged the concerned authority to “ensure those responsible held accountable for their actions.”

According to the ANTA, it head office was vandalised at around 6pm on June 17 and the “tyrannical miscreants” allegedly held its general secretary and vandalised the office.

The office houses the welfare of the taxi drivers and owners in all the districts of Nagaland, the Association, it said.

The unwarranted vandalism and putting the life of the official in danger was a clear manifestation of cowardice and unacceptable which needed to be seriously dealt with befitting law, by the law enforcing agencies, it added.

Accordingly, expressing anguish over the vandalism, the union urged for thorough investigation into the incident while assuring it fullest commitments to cooperate with the “law enforcing agencies as and when called for to eradicate the evil act from the society.”

Meanwhile, the Business Association of Nagas (BAN) and Nagaland Two Wheeler Taxi Association (NTWTA) condemned the incident and extended their solidarity with the ANTA.

In a press release, the BAN termed the alleged vandalisation a “shameless and senseless attack” and said that the abhorrent incident “serves as a stark reminder of the depths to which some individuals are willing to sink to further their own selfish interests.”

“It is a callous disregard for the tireless efforts and valuable contributions made by the members of our business community. We stand firm in our condemnation of such despicable acts and send a clear message that they will not be tolerated,” a press release from the BAN stated.

Further noting that “an attack on one is an attack on all,” the BAN asserted that it would not allow those who seek to “exploit and prey on the hard work of others to disrupt our collective progress and prosperity.”

In this connection, it demanded that the law enforcement agencies take immediate and decisive action to apprehend the perpetrators responsible for this senseless act of violence.

“They must be swiftly brought to justice and held accountable for their reprehensible actions. It is only through the enforcement of the law that we can deter future acts of aggression and ensure the safety and security of our businesses and communities,” it stressed.

Meanwhile, the BAN stated that it remains steadfast in the commitment to fostering a business environment that is free from the exploitation and cruelty displayed by these attackers.

“We will continue to tirelessly advocate for the rights and well-being of our members, as we strive to create a secure and prosperous community for all,” it added.

In a condemnation note, the NTWTA stated that the “act of mindless destruction not only reflects lack of regards for others property but also showcases a complete disregard for the value of our society.”

The NTWTA condemn their action and find them deeply unacceptable, it said.

The association further pointed out that ANTA Kohima HQ has been providing essential services to the community, facilitating safe and reliable transportation for the public and the fact that such an act has been carried out against a well-established and respected office is particularly distressing.

To this end, the NTWTA requested the law enforcement agencies to take immediate step to investigate this incident thoroughly and ensure justice is served at the earliest, adding that it is crucial that those responsible face appropriate legal consequences.

“The NTWTA stands united with you, extending our support and solidarity,” it added.