The decision of the state cabinet to recommend the assassination case of MLA Tirong Aboh and 10 others to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) seems more like eyewash. Aboh, along with 10 others, including his 20-year-old son, were gunned down by suspected Naga militants on 21 May. So far, no one has been arrested in this regard. The state government and the security agencies have failed to even name the suspected groups or individuals involved in the horrific killing. Though the needle of suspicion has been pointing towards the NSCN (IM), they have denied their involvement.
Further, there are conflicting reports regarding the operation launched by the security forces to nab the killers. The army and the police claim that they are continuing the operation; however, the ground report is quite different. The locals allege that the security forces are not doing their duty properly, which they say provided a window of opportunity to the ultras to escape. By the time the NIA starts its investigation it may be too late and most of the attackers would have fled from Tirap district. The sincerity of the Pema Khandu-led BJP government will be tested over the Tirong Aboh assassination case. There is no doubt that this is a political murder, and there is the possibility that many high profile people may be behind it. The CM has been assuring the people of the state that the perpetrators involved in the killing will be brought to justice. The citizens of Arunachal Pradesh will be waiting to see whether the 11 families get justice or if they will meet the same fate as that of the family of MP Wangcha Rajkumar – who was also killed by militants – which is still waiting for justice.