Two Kuki women were killed in Leisangphai village, also known as Muktokhal, in Manipur’s Tamenglong district on September 15, according to Kuki organisations. The victims were identified as 28-year-old nursing graduate Kimjalhai Singson and 76-year-old Phalneichong Sitlhou. Their deaths have sparked condemnation from Kuki political leaders, legislators, civil society organisations and student bodies.
Meanwhile, the groups have demanded stronger security, an independent investigation and legal action against those responsible. The allegations against NSCN-IM and ZUF-K remain subject to investigation.
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Key Facts
- Location: Leisangphai (Muktokhal), Tamenglong district, Manipur
- Date of killings: September 15
- Victims: Kimjalhai Singson, 28, and Phalneichong Sitlhou, 76
- Organisations involved: Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki-Zo Council, CoTU and KSO
- Demands: Security, independent investigation and prosecution
- Allegations: Kuki organisations and political representatives have alleged involvement of NSCN-IM and ZUF-K
- Highway protest: Kuki Inpi Jiribam, Tamenglong and Noney announced a shutdown of NH-37
Two Kuki Women Killed During Agricultural Activities
According to statements from Kuki organisations, Kimjalhai Singson and Phalneichong Sitlhou were carrying out routine agricultural activities when the incident occurred.
The organisations said the two women were on their way to their jhum fields when attackers targeted them. However, the exact circumstances of the killings remain subject to investigation.
Kimjalhai, 28, had recently completed her nursing graduation. Phalneichong, 76, was also identified as a victim in the incident.
Political Leaders Condemn the Killings
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen described the killings as “deeply shocking and heartbreaking.” She said authorities must prioritise civilian safety and take necessary steps to prevent further attacks.
Kipgen also urged the authorities to bring those responsible to justice. Additionally, she appealed to people across communities to maintain peace and restraint.
The Deputy Chief Minister warned against allowing the tragedy to deepen hatred, division or further violence.
MLAs Demand Stronger Security
Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen and Saikul MLA Kimneo Hangshing condemned the killings.
Both legislators alleged that NSCN-IM and ZUF-K cadres may have been involved. However, they stressed that investigators must establish the allegations through a proper investigation.
The MLAs also called for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable civilian populations and demanded prosecution of those responsible.
Kuki Organisations Demand Independent Investigation
The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) alleged that the two women faced an attack while travelling to their jhum fields.
The organisation accused NSCN-IM and ZUF (Kamson) of involvement and urged the Centre and Manipur government to intervene immediately.
Meanwhile, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) raised concerns over the safety of Kuki civilians. The council demanded firm and lawful action against armed groups accused of attacking civilians.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) also condemned the incident. It demanded the arrest of those responsible and questioned the security arrangements in the area.
Earlier Killings Raise Security Concerns
Kuki organisations also referred to separate incidents on September 13 in Tamenglong and Noney districts.
According to their statements, four civilians, including two women, died in those incidents. Two other people, including a minor, reportedly suffered injuries.
The organisations said the latest killings have increased concerns over civilian safety in the region.
NH-37 Shutdown Announced
The Kuki Inpi Jiribam, Tamenglong and Noney alleged that the killings occurred despite earlier assurances about strengthened security arrangements.
The organisation demanded the arrest and prosecution of the alleged perpetrators. It also called for a process to abrogate the ceasefire agreement with NSCN-IM.
Furthermore, the group announced a shutdown of National Highway-37 until authorities took concrete action.
The organisation stated that the mortal remains of the two victims would not be accepted for final rites until its demands for justice received attention.
Student Bodies Call for Time-Bound Probe
Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) branches across several cities condemned the killings.
The student body demanded an independent, time-bound investigation into the deaths of civilians in Tamenglong and Noney.
KSO also called for adequate security in vulnerable villages, prosecution of those responsible and action against armed groups accused of targeting civilians.
Questions and Answers
What happened in Tamenglong, Manipur?
Two Kuki women were killed in Leisangphai village, also known as Muktokhal, on September 15.
Who were the victims?
Kuki organisations identified the victims as Kimjalhai Singson, 28, and Phalneichong Sitlhou, 76.
Who has condemned the killings?
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, MLAs, Kuki organisations, civil society groups and student bodies condemned the incident.
Who do the organisations accuse?
Kuki organisations and political representatives have alleged involvement of NSCN-IM and ZUF-K. Investigators must establish the allegations.
What action are the organisations demanding?
They want stronger security, an independent investigation, arrests and prosecution of those responsible.
What happened to National Highway-37?
Kuki Inpi Jiribam, Tamenglong and Noney announced a shutdown of NH-37 until concrete action was taken.
Location Context
Tamenglong is a district in western Manipur, Northeast India. The region’s difficult terrain and vulnerable rural communities make civilian security and access to agricultural areas important concerns during periods of conflict.
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