JAC Demands Justice for Md. Shahnawas, Calls for NIA Probe

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) against the Brutal Killing of Md. Shahnawas (33), son of Md. Leharuddin from Keirang Tera Makhong, has resolved to refuse the body of the deceased until their demands for justice are met. The JAC urged the government to clarify conflicting statements surrounding the case and transfer the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for an impartial probe.

According to the JAC, Shahnawas was abducted on January 14, 2025, around 6:45 pm by unidentified individuals. At 9:57 pm, his family received a ransom demand of Rs. 5 Lakhs to be delivered to Andro. The following day, the family was informed by the police that Shahnawas had died at Thoubal Hospital.

In a press release, AT Unit 2, Andro, denied involvement, claiming that some people had misused their name to detain a drug user who later died. However, the Manipur Police Department issued a conflicting statement, confirming the arrest of six suspected members of the Arambai Tengol group in connection with the case.

“This confusion has caused great distress to the family and the public,” the JAC said. “Within 24 hours, these conflicting statements must be clarified so that the public knows the truth.” The committee condemned AT Unit 2’s denial, questioning why the unit issued a press release when no direct allegations had been made. “Such an action seems like an attempt to avoid responsibility. It is very unfortunate,” the JAC remarked.

The JAC demanded the case be handed over to the NIA to ensure a fair investigation and warned of large-scale agitations if their demands are not met. “If the government does not provide a positive response to these demands, the JAC will organize a large-scale agitation with the support of civil society organizations,” the resolution stated.

Ab Rahaman, convenor of the JAC, emphasized the need for stringent action against those responsible to prevent similar tragedies and reiterated the call for justice for Shahnawas.