Naga youths staged a sit-in protest in Senapati, Manipur, demanding time-bound justice for civilians killed amid the state’s continuing ethnic tensions. The protest reflects growing concern among Naga civil society groups over accountability and the pace of investigations into recent killings.
The demonstration comes as Naga organisations continue to press the Manipur government for a transparent and impartial investigation. They have also called for action against those responsible for the deaths and stronger measures to protect civilians.
Naga youths renew demand for justice
The sit-in in Senapati is part of a wider series of protests by Naga groups seeking accountability for the killing of six Liangmai Naga civilians. The six men were allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district on May 13, 2026. Their bodies were recovered on June 10.
Naga organisations have repeatedly demanded that the investigation be completed within a clear timeframe. They argue that delays could weaken public confidence in the justice process.
Earlier protests have also highlighted the need for an impartial investigation. In July, a sit-in in Imphal called for transparency and accountability after arrests were made in connection with the case. Protesters said arrests alone would not be enough without a credible investigation and prosecution.
Case draws fresh scrutiny
The demand from Naga youths comes amid fresh developments in the investigation. Manipur Police recently suspended a serving police personnel, Thangginlian Vaiphei, and ordered a departmental inquiry over his alleged involvement in the case.
The suspension followed a letter from the National Investigation Agency’s Imphal branch, according to local reports. Vaiphei had earlier been attached to Kangpokpi Police. The development has renewed calls from Naga organisations for a complete examination of the circumstances surrounding the abduction and deaths.
However, allegations surrounding the case remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings. Authorities have not established the guilt of individuals merely accused of involvement.
Calls for a transparent investigation
Naga civil society bodies have maintained that justice must be pursued through due process. They have called for investigators to establish the circumstances of the abductions, identify those responsible and ensure that any suspects face legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, public protests have continued in different parts of Manipur. On September 6, Naga and Meitei protesters gathered at Khwairamband Keithel in Imphal and demanded justice for the six Liangmai civilians. Police used tear gas during the protest as demonstrators sought action before the conclusion of the Manipur Assembly session.
Political pressure also increases
The justice campaign has also gained political significance. Nine Naga legislators recently abstained from a Manipur Assembly sitting, demanding justice for the six civilians and action against those allegedly responsible, according to a report by United News of India.
The legislators belong to different political parties and include members of the government. Their protest has added pressure on the administration to address concerns raised by Naga communities.
Moreover, the Joint Tribes Council has opposed a proposed visit by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to Luangkao, citing the unresolved killings. The visit was later cancelled, according to local reports.
Senapati remains a focus of concern
Senapati has become an important centre of Naga mobilisation as tensions continue across parts of Manipur. Recent violence has also included the killing of four Naga civilians in an ambush along the Imphal-Tamei Road in Kangpokpi district in August.
The four victims were brought to Senapati District Hospital amid a shutdown called by Naga groups. The United Naga Council and other organisations demanded justice and called for a Special Investigation Team to examine the attack.
These incidents have deepened concerns over civilian safety in areas where communities remain affected by the conflict that began in 2023.
Naga youths seek accountability and peace
The sit-in by Naga youths underscores a broader demand for accountability, rather than confrontation. Protesters are seeking a justice process that is timely, transparent and consistent with the law.
For the families of the slain civilians, a credible investigation remains central to their demand for justice. At the same time, the wider community expects authorities to ensure civilian protection and prevent further violence.
As pressure grows on the Manipur government, the handling of the cases will remain closely watched. A transparent investigation, timely legal action and equal protection for civilians could help restore public confidence. For now, Naga youths and civil society organisations continue to demand that justice move forward without further delay.
