Release of Arakan Freedom Fighters

AASYC'S REQUEST FOR THE IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF 36 ARAKANESE AND KAREN FREEDOM FIGHTERS ARRESTED BY INDIAN NAVY

We, All Arakan Student and Youth Congress, would like to request the Indian government to release 36 Arakan and Karen prisoners who have been arrested at Adman island, India since February, 1998.

On February 12 1998, the Indian army shot to death four Arakan leaders, two Karen leaders, and arrested 36 activists. Among them were General Khaing Ra Za, Major Saw Tweng, Captain Ran Naing, Pilot Lunn Zan Khaing from National United Party of Arakan (NUPA), Major Pado Mu Luay and Captain Myint Shwe from Karen National Union(KNU).

Out of 36 detainees in India, 25 belong to the NUPA, and 11 are from the KNU. They were charged in 1989 under the "Arms and Explosive Substance Act" and under section 3(1) (b) of the "National Security Act" of 1980. However, the charge had become irrelevant since May 15, 1999. The Indian

government could not re-file the case in the court since it has failed to produce the evidence of the allegations in the limited time period of 364 days. It is time for all of us to adhere to the calls of our brothers who want freedom. Thus, the act of imprisonment, which is unlawful and unjust, will be ended with their immediate freedom.

As you are aware, many democracy fighters and supporters in all of poor Myanmar's neighboring countries have suffered tremendously for many years as a result of military rule. We call on the government of India to release all 36 Arakanese and Karen freedom fighters who have been illegally detained by Indian Navy in a remote Adamans island since February 12, 1998 without any specified charge under Indian law.

More and more lawyers, activists and media around the world are frustrated over the misconduct of Arakanese and Karen by the Indian government and its unfair treatment of Arakanese and Karen freedom fighters since it has recently formed a close military relationship with the Myanmarese inferior regime. Our Arakan, Karen and other ethnic nationalities in communities across Thailand therefore encourage the Indian government to carry out our friendly request for their immediate release.

Please set our brothers free!

Best wishes,

Central Committee
All Arakan Student and Youth Congress (AASYC)
HEAD QUARTER (THAILAND)