Naga organisations hold rally in Ukhrul demanding Assam Rifles withdrawal
Protesters in Manipur called for a political resolution to the state crisis and the removal of security forces from Naga-inhabited areas.
Naga organisations held a large rally in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on November 5 to demand a political solution to the state's ongoing crisis, according to The Sentinel.
The protest was organised by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the Tangkhul Frontal Organisation under the United Naga Council (UNC).
Participants marched from Dungrei Junction and Mission Ground to the Ukhrul Headquarters Ground for a public meeting. The demonstration caused disruptions as shops, private institutions, and public transport remained closed.
The groups demanded that the Assam Rifles be removed from Naga areas and that the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement be cancelled. They also called for Kuki militant organisations to be declared terrorist groups and for the repatriation of Kuki refugees.
Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) president Ramreichan Keishing told the gathering that Kuki groups under the SoO agreement were fighting against the Naga community. Keishing also claimed that the Assam Rifles did not remain neutral.
A similar protest took place in the neighbouring Kamjong district. Keishing stated that the agitation would proceed until the demands are met.