Jiribam, August 20, 2025: The Hmar Students' Association (HSA), Joint Headquarter Jiribam, has extended its full support to the indefinite bandh called by the Barak Valley Boat Association, expressing solidarity with the protest against the arrest of two Hmar brothers from Cachar district by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The bandh was announced by the Barak Valley Boat Association following the detention of Thanglienlal Hmar and his brother Lalrosang Hmar, both residents of Moinathol village in Assam's Cachar district. The association has alleged that the arrests were unjustified and has demanded their immediate release.
In a statement issued through its Department of Information and Publicity, the Hmar Students' Association said it stands in "full solidarity" with the Barak Valley Boat Association and supports its call for an indefinite shutdown. The student body described the arrests as "arbitrary" and voiced concern over the manner in which the two villagers were detained.
The HSA demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Thanglienlal Hmar and Lalrosang Hmar, stating that due legal procedures and the rights of the individuals concerned must be respected. The organisation maintained that the issue extends beyond the arrest of two individuals and touches upon broader concerns regarding justice, accountability, and the protection of community rights.
Appealing for wider public support, the Hmar Students' Association urged all concerned individuals, civil society organisations, community bodies, and institutions to extend solidarity with the bandh and support the collective demand for justice. The organisation said peaceful democratic protests remain an important means of expressing public concern and seeking accountability.
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The development comes amid growing unrest in parts of the Barak Valley and neighbouring regions following the arrests. Community organisations and local groups have expressed concern over the incident and called for greater transparency in the investigation. The HSA said it would continue to monitor the situation closely and stand with the affected families until what it described as justice is delivered.
The student body also appealed to the authorities to ensure that legal proceedings are conducted fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the rule of law. It urged all stakeholders to maintain peace while pursuing lawful and democratic means to address the issue.
The indefinite bandh called by the Barak Valley Boat Association has drawn support from several organisations, reflecting growing concern within the Hmar community over the arrests and reinforcing calls for accountability and due process.
