Amid escalating militant activities in Manipur, the Kuki-Zo Council has urged the Government of India to take decisive measures to contain armed groups operating in the region. The council warned that failing to curb these insurgent factions could plunge the state back into an all-out territorial conflict. The statement follows recent violent attacks in Tamenglong and Noney districts that resulted in the deaths of four civilians.
Details of the Attacks and Losses
The violence erupted on Sunday when assailants targeted Tollen and Longpi villages, killing four residents, including two women. Condemning the killings in an official statement released on Monday, the Kuki-Zo Council revealed that more than 22 members of their community, including women and young children, have been killed since the start of 2026 in attacks attributed to Naga armed groups.
Criticism of Political and Civil Leadership
The council voiced strong criticism against political authorities and civil society figures, highlighting a apparent lack of genuine efforts to initiate dialogue or promote reconciliation. Addressing the continuing unrest between Naga and Kuki-Zo groups, the leadership stressed that armed factions cannot be permitted to operate with impunity. They emphasized that decisive intervention by central forces is imperative to avert further loss of human life.
Reactions from Local Lawmakers
Three Kuki Members of the Legislative Assembly also expressed outrage over the attacks and called for immediate law enforcement measures. Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen stated that living with dignity and free from terror is an inalienable right belonging to every citizen. MLA Letzamang Haokip called upon military and police forces to locate and arrest the perpetrators to prevent further violence. Meanwhile, MLA Kimneo Hangshing characterized the killings as an act of cowardice.
Background of the Ongoing Conflict
Manipur has been engulfed in severe ethnic strife between the valley-dwelling Meitei community and the hill-dwelling Kuki population since May 2023. The prolonged violence has taken at least 306 lives across the state. Additionally, 49 individuals remain officially listed as missing, while thousands of displaced residents continue to live in temporary relief camps.
