TNL alleges militant involvement, questions security forces
The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has condemned what it described as “orchestrated aggression” by Kuki groups at T Khullen along National Highway-2, alleging involvement of armed individuals and raising questions over the role of security forces during the ongoing shutdown called by the United Naga Council (UNC).
In a press communiqué issued on Tuesday, the apex Tangkhul civil body alleged that violence erupted when individuals from Changoubung village, reportedly backed by alleged Kuki militants operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact, provoked volunteers enforcing the three-day total shutdown.
The shutdown was being observed by members of the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) as part of a mourning protest over the killing of two Tangkhul civilians on April 18 near TM Kasom village along NH-202 in Ukhrul district.
According to TNL, tension escalated in the early hours when Kangpokpi Police personnel reportedly arrived at a UNC check post at T Khullen and attempted to detain a volunteer, while allegedly intimidating others by loading their assault rifles. The organisation claimed that soon after the police action, “unruly elements” began removing barricades erected for the shutdown, triggering a confrontation with volunteers.
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TNL alleged that repeated provocation led to violence, during which stones were pelted at Naga volunteers, injuring several civilians and damaging two vehicles — a Scorpio belonging to SDSA and an Alto car owned by members of the Naga community.
The communiqué further alleged that individuals described as militants opened fire using automatic weapons in the presence of State Police and Central security forces. TNL claimed that, instead of intervening against the armed individuals, security personnel fired tear gas shells and blank rounds toward the volunteers.
Describing the incident as “deeply disturbing,” the organisation questioned the neutrality of State and Central forces in handling the situation and alleged bias in their response.
TNL has demanded that the State Government identify those responsible for initiating the violence and take legal action against the perpetrators.
The organisation also reiterated its appeal for justice for victims of recent attacks and urged authorities to ensure impartial enforcement of law amid the fragile security situation prevailing across the hill districts.
The incident has further heightened tensions along major highways in Manipur, where shutdowns and protests continue following recent civilian killings.
