Amid rising tensions in the region, a prominent umbrella organisation representing Naga communities in Manipur has strongly opposed an upcoming official visit. The Working Committee of the Joint Tribes Council Manipur has publicly urged all Naga residents to completely boycott Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s scheduled trip to Luangkao village, which is currently planned for September 12.
Objections To The Maiden Visit And Museum Review
The committee pointed out that the Chief Minister’s proposed maiden visit and pilgrimage to Luangkao, which was also intended to review the ongoing construction and progress of the Rani Gaidinliu Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum, is entirely inappropriate given the current circumstances on the ground. The leadership stressed that holding official functions in the area under the prevailing conditions disregards core local grievances.
Unresolved Killings And Unclaimed Bodies After 119 Days
Elaborating on the background of this widespread anger, the committee released a statement noting that 119 days have already elapsed since six Liangmai Naga men were allegedly abducted and subsequently killed at Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13. According to the organisation, the victims' bodies still remain unclaimed inside the morgue at JNIMS in Imphal. Furthermore, the committee alleged that authorities have made zero arrests and brought no closure to the investigation.
Stance On Official Programmes And Heritage Respect
While the organisation formally acknowledged its deep respect for the legacy of Rani Gaidinliu, it asserted that the government's primary obligation must be to ensure swift and transparent justice for the bereaved families before stepping into Naga-inhabited areas for official engagements. The committee noted that conducting public relations exercises or development reviews while the tragic deaths of their youths remain unaddressed is a direct insult to the Naga population.
Call For A Boycott Of Talks And Official Meetings
Expanding the scope of the protest, the committee issued a directive to local leaders, village authorities, and civil society organisations across the region. They have been asked to strictly refrain from holding meetings with any government officials regarding development projects, relief distribution, or political dialogues until the broader interests of all Naga communities are fully consulted and represented.
Mandate Against Individual Representation
Reiterating its firm stance, the committee concluded that no single individual or unauthorised group possesses the authority to speak on behalf of the Naga people without a formal collective mandate. The leadership insists that community solidarity must take precedence over isolated administrative interactions until accountability is established for the victims.
