What is home ministry doing, asks Rahul Gandhi over civilian deaths in Nagaland

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attacked the centre over the killing of several civilians during an anti-insurgency operation in Nagaland's Mon district. Rahul Gandhi asked what exactly is the government doing if neither the civilians nor the security forces are safe in the country.

Congress leader took to Twitter to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. He wrote: “This is heart wrenching. GOI must give a real reply. What exactly is the home ministry doing when neither civilians nor security personnel are safe in our own land?”

At least 13 people, all coal miners, and a soldier were killed and 11 injured when the security forces fired on them due to "mistaken identity".

The incident took place when the victims, who were daily wagers, were returning home from a coal mine in a pick-up van.

Villagers said that the security personnel are believed to have mistaken the victims as members of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang-Yung Aung) and fired on them. Angry locals attacked the security forces and damaged their vehicles.

A brief statement of the Army said that based on credible intelligence of likely movement of insurgents, a specific operation was planned to be conducted in the area of Tiru under Mon District.

"The incident and its aftermath is deeply regretted. The cause of the unfortunate loss of lives is being investigated at the highest level and appropriate action will be taken as per the course of law," the statement said.

Nagaland police are yet to provide details of the incident.

Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has ordered for a high-level probe by a Special Investigation Team.