The Shamator Village Council has condemned the alleged arson, vandalism, intimidation and destruction of Tikhir community properties in Shamator Town, demanding an impartial investigation, compensation for affected families and accountability for those responsible.
In a condemnation statement, the council said the acts had “not only destroyed properties but have also shattered the lives, livelihoods, and aspirations of innocent families” who had struggled for decades to rebuild their homes and futures after previous destruction.
“The present violence is deeply distressing, particularly when tensions arising under Pungro Subdivision, Kiphire District, must not be used as a pretext to target innocent Tikhir inhabitants and their properties in Shamator Town,” it stated.
The council said reports indicated that houses had been burned and vandalised, while schoolbags, books, children’s belongings and essential documents had been destroyed.
“These are not merely material losses; they represent a serious assault on the security, dignity, education, livelihoods, and future of innocent citizens,” the statement said.
The council further expressed concern over the reported continuation of arson over three consecutive days, questioning the preventive measures taken by the district administration and the adequacy of security arrangements.
“Despite reports of arson continuing over three consecutive days, with properties allegedly being burned one after another, affected residents appear to have been left without adequate protection,” it stated.
The council also called for an impartial investigation into allegations that women wearing traditional Yimkhiung attire had obstructed security personnel from reaching affected locations.
“Allegations that women wearing traditional Yimkhiung attire obstructed security personnel from reaching affected locations must be impartially investigated, and the circumstances surrounding any such obstruction must be established without prejudice,” it stated.
The statement also raised concerns over reports that certain individuals allegedly associated with the Yimkhiung community had directed Yimkhiung tenants to vacate rented accommodation belonging to Tikhir residents, followed by the destruction of properties.
“These allegations warrant immediate and impartial investigation, and any persons found responsible must be held accountable in accordance with the law,” the council said.
Questioning the administration’s response, the council demanded an explanation of the preventive measures taken to safeguard lives and properties and why further destruction was allegedly allowed to continue.
It also urged the MLA representing the 58 Shamator Assembly Constituency to address the concerns of affected residents, stating that an elected representative had a responsibility to serve all constituents impartially, “rising above political and community considerations and speaking unequivocally against violence, intimidation, and unlawful destruction.”
The council reiterated that protecting citizens, maintaining public order and enforcing the rule of law were fundamental responsibilities of the government.
“Silence, inaction, and the absence of accountability can neither restore public confidence nor secure lasting peace,” it stated.
The council also recalled that the land on which Shamator Town’s administrative establishment stands was donated by Shamator Village for administrative purposes. It described the situation as deeply unfortunate, given that the village that contributed land for the establishment of the administrative headquarters was now witnessing suffering amid escalating tensions and community divisions.
Demands investigation, compensation
Among its demands, the council called for justice and accountability for all persons responsible for the alleged arson, vandalism, intimidation and destruction of properties, as well as an immediate and impartial investigation into all incidents, including the alleged obstruction of security personnel and any failure to provide timely protection.
It also demanded appropriate legal action against those found responsible, without favouritism, discrimination or political interference.
The council sought fair compensation for verified losses suffered by affected families, churches, shopkeepers, tenants and other property owners, along with immediate rehabilitation and reconstruction assistance to help families rebuild their homes, restore their livelihoods and resume normal life.
It further called for adequate security arrangements to protect all communities, particularly vulnerable residents, and prevent further violence, intimidation, displacement or retaliation.
The council also demanded a transparent and accountable response from the district administration and the elected representative regarding measures taken and concrete steps proposed to restore peace and normalcy.
“The Shamator Village Council firmly maintains that innocent inhabitants must not be made victims of disputes, political interests, or collective hostility. No individual or community should be punished for grievances or actions attributed to others,” the statement said.
“No grievance can ever justify arson, intimidation, displacement, or the destruction of innocent people’s lives,” it added.
The council appealed to the government and district administration to act without further delay, bring those responsible to justice through due process, provide appropriate assistance to affected families and ensure equal protection under the law.
“The people of Shamator deserve protection, not persecution; peace, not destruction; and justice, not silence,” it stated.
