Two prominent Kuki organisations have condemned separate incidents of violence targeting Kuki villages in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, and the Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee alleged that the attacks could undermine recent efforts to restore peace in the violence-hit state. The groups reported an armed attack in Leplen village and an arson incident in Taphou Kuki village.
They have urged the Centre and Manipur government to strengthen security and ensure equal protection for civilians.The allegations have added to concerns over security arrangements in the hill districts, where tensions remain high following prolonged ethnic violence.
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Key Facts
- Location: Kangpokpi district, Manipur
- Affected villages: Leplen and Taphou Kuki
- Organisations: CoTU and Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee
- Reported incident: Armed attack and arson
- Reported casualty: One civilian injured in the Leplen incident, according to the committee
- Main demand: Stronger and equal security protection
- Concern: Possible impact on ongoing peace efforts
Allegations Over Leplen Village Attack
The Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee alleged that armed cadres of the NSCN-IM attacked Leplen village around 12.20 am on Monday.
The committee claimed that armed personnel stationed at Seneikethil village entered Leplen and opened fire at villagers and local travellers. It described the incident as an unprovoked attack and said one civilian was injured.
The allegations have not been independently established in the information provided.
The committee also claimed that security forces had been withdrawn from Leplen around six days before the incident, while a significant deployment remained at nearby Seneikethil.
According to the organisation, the security arrangement left Leplen and Songmun Kuki villages without adequate protection.
Concerns Over Security Deployment
The Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee questioned the government’s security strategy and alleged that uneven deployment had increased risks for civilians.
It demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the alleged attack and called for the urgent redeployment of adequate Central security forces in Leplen and Songmun.
The group also called for equal protection of civilians and property irrespective of their location or community identity.
CoTU Condemns Multiple Incidents
The Committee on Tribal Unity alleged that the Leplen attack and arson at Taphou Kuki village were attempts to create fresh tensions in the hill areas.
CoTU alleged that armed cadres of the NSCN-IM, along with members of the Liangmei community, were involved in the incidents. It linked the alleged violence to the government’s recent action against an alleged illegal checkpoint at Namdilong.
The organisation said recent steps by the state government under Chief Minister Y Khemchand had shown some progress towards restoring law and order.
It warned that renewed violence could undermine those efforts and further restrict civilian movement and daily life.
Demand for Action Against Armed Activities
CoTU urged the Centre and the Manipur government to take decisive action against what it described as the operational activities of the NSCN-IM in the hill districts.
It also sought action against leaders of the United Naga Council and the Sadar Hills District Sports Association, alleging that certain individuals were contributing to tensions through public statements and mobilisation.
The organisation said authorities must take firm steps if they are serious about restoring peace in the region.
Concerns Over Security Operations
CoTU also raised concerns over an alleged security operation at J Songtun early Monday.
The organisation claimed that security personnel assaulted women and elderly residents during the operation. It called for security actions to be conducted impartially while ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians.
These allegations also require independent verification.
What Happened in Kangpokpi?
Kuki organisations reported separate incidents involving an alleged armed attack on Leplen village and arson at Taphou Kuki village.
What Are the Organisations Demanding?
They have demanded arrests of those responsible, stronger Central security deployment and equal protection for civilians and property.
Why Is Security Important Now?
The groups say fresh violence could undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace and deepen insecurity in Manipur’s hill districts.
Why Is Kangpokpi Important?
Kangpokpi is one of Manipur’s key hill districts and has remained significantly affected by the state’s prolonged ethnic conflict. Any fresh violence in the area could have wider implications for civilian safety, displacement and ongoing peace efforts across the Northeast.
Both organisations said they support peace and security but warned that further attacks and uneven security arrangements could increase fear among residents and destabilise the region further.
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