Naga MLAs have stepped up their demand for justice over the killing of six Naga civilians abducted from Leilon Vaiphei, while seeking action against Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen.
The development comes amid renewed Naga-Kuki tensions in Manipur. The state Assembly session began on September 2, but reports do not show the Naga legislators abstaining from the proceedings. Instead, the legislators have used political and legislative channels to press their demands.
Naga MLAs seek action from Centre
Nine Naga legislators wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah in late August, seeking action against Kuki-Zo leaders and armed groups they allege were linked to attacks on Naga civilians. Their memorandum also sought action against KNF-P leader Thangboi Kipgen, who is the husband of Nemcha Kipgen.
The legislators alleged that cadres of the Kuki National Front-President were involved in the abduction and killing of six Naga civilians. They also accused the deputy chief minister’s office of having links with the group. These are allegations made by the legislators and should not be treated as established findings.
The Naga MLAs have also called for action against Nemcha Kipgen. The demand has added a political dimension to the sensitive security issue in the hill districts.
Leilon Vaiphei case remains central
The Leilon Vaiphei case relates to the abduction of Naga civilians on May 13. Six men were later found dead near the village on June 10. Their bodies were recovered in a mutilated condition, triggering anger among Naga organisations and wider demands for accountability.
The National Investigation Agency is examining the case. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh told the Assembly on September 3 that the investigation was progressing and that accounts given by victims’ families had provided important leads.
The government has said it is taking steps to ensure justice. However, Naga organisations continue to demand arrests and stronger action.
Assembly session highlights political divide
The ongoing Assembly session has underlined the competing political positions in Manipur. Two Kuki-Zo MLAs, Kimneo Haokip Hangshing and Haokholet Kipgen, attended the House in person on September 2. It was the first physical participation by Kuki-Zo legislators in the Assembly in Imphal since the ethnic violence began in 2023.
Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen and BJP MLA Letzamang Haokip joined virtually, while other Kuki-Zo legislators stayed away. The attendance followed a Kuki Inpi Manipur directive asking Kuki-Zo MLAs to skip the session until a political settlement on separate administration was reached.
Against this backdrop, Naga MLAs have continued to raise concerns over security and accountability rather than withdrawing from the Assembly process.
Nemcha Kipgen rejects allegations
Nemcha Kipgen has rejected allegations made by Losii Dikho and other Naga legislators. She has described the claims as unverified and said they could further damage trust between communities.
Kipgen has also defended her participation in government duties, including virtual attendance at the Assembly. Her position contrasts sharply with the demands from Naga leaders and organisations for her removal from the deputy chief minister’s post.
Losii Dikho, meanwhile, has warned that the nine Naga MLAs could reconsider their support for the BJP-led government if violence against Nagas continues.
Justice demands intensify ahead of Assembly sitting
Public pressure has also grown. On September 6, a rally in Imphal demanded justice for missing people and the six Naga civilians linked to the Leilon Vaiphei case. Protesters sought stronger government action and urged legislators to take up the issue in the Assembly.
The government must maintain a credible investigation while preventing the case from deepening the Naga-Kuki divide. Any action must follow due process and evidence.
For the Naga MLAs, the Leilon Vaiphei killings have become a major test of the government’s response to civilian security. With the Assembly continuing its work, demands for justice, accountability and political responsibility are likely to remain central to Manipur’s fragile peace process.
