Imphal, April 19: Tensions remain high in Manipur’s Ukhrul district following the murder of two individuals, including a retired Indian Army soldier. The incident occurred just a day prior, prompting ongoing security operations to apprehend the militants involved.
A police officer reported that an FIR has been filed against suspected Kuki militants at the Litang police station in connection with attacks on civilian and passenger vehicles in the Raodei area on Saturday. Additional security forces were deployed to the scene immediately after the attacks, and a joint operation continued on Sunday to locate the perpetrators.
The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) condemned the killings in strong terms on Sunday. The group labeled the act as a grave offense committed by Kuki militants, who are reportedly operating under a Suspension of Operations (SOO) agreement with the government.
The statement emphasized that such aggressive actions not only escalate tensions but also indicate a potential failure of the existing governmental framework. NSCN-IM warned that the Naga people might be compelled to adopt all defensive measures to protect their land and sovereignty.
Furthermore, the statement asserted that this is no longer just a claim. Numerous local reports and testimonies confirm alleged collusion between Indian security forces and Kuki armed groups under the SOO agreement, aimed at destabilizing neighboring regions under the guise of ethnic conflict.
According to police, the two victims, belonging to the Naga community, were shot dead on the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway (NH-2) in Ukhrul district. The attack occurred when unidentified armed assailants opened fire on vehicles heading towards the district.
The deceased have been identified as Chainoshang Shokungnao (45) and Yaruingam Washum (42).
Police reported that more than ten private and passenger vehicles traveling from Imphal to Ukhrul were ambushed from a nearby hill. Three passengers were injured in the attack, with two later succumbing to their wounds.
Armed conflict between Kuki and Tangkhul Naga factions has been ongoing in the Litang area of Ukhrul district since February of this year.
Amidst the unrest, the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway (NH-2) has frequently been blocked by armed miscreants.
In response to the shooting incident in Ukhrul district, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced on Saturday that the state government has decided to hand over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for a thorough and detailed inquiry.
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