Naga group issues three-day ultimatum after four civilians killed in Manipur
A Naga organisation demanded the removal of Kuki rebels and a federal investigation following an ambush in Ukhrul district.
A Naga organisation has issued a three-day ultimatum to the Manipur state and central governments following the killing of four Naga civilians in Ukhrul district on Friday. According to The New Indian Express, the Tangkhul Naga Long demanded that Kuki rebels be removed from Naga areas and that the case be transferred to the National Investigation Agency.
The victims, identified as Kapangkhui RS, her son Haoleila RS, Khanmila Keishing, and August Ngalung, were killed in an ambush on National Highway 202. The Hindu reported that the unidentified gunmen opened fire on two vehicles travelling from Ukhrul to Imphal near the New Heaven area at approximately 1 pm.
The Tangkhul Naga Long stated that the state and central governments are responsible for failing to protect civilians. The organisation also called for the immediate withdrawal of all central security forces from that stretch of the road, noting a loss of faith in them. The victim families have resolved not to claim the bodies until these demands are met.
While Naga organisations suggested Kuki armed groups might be responsible, Kuki groups have denied any involvement. The Hindu reported that several Kuki civil society organisations condemned the killings and requested an impartial probe.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh reviewed the law and order situation on Saturday. A government statement said it was decided that combing operations would continue to catch the culprits and that security posts would strengthen their cover in their deployment areas.