The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed strong indignation over what it described as a “brutal and unprovoked assault” on Monsang student leaders near Bijoypur, between Kakching Lamkhai and Pallel, on the night of October 30.
According to the Federation, the victims include Gedion Kiirii, President of Sirti Thiimjiitam Sourkhe (STS), Wanglar Phillip, General Secretary STS, and members Ts. Hollyson and Th. Moni. The attack, reportedly carried out by more than half a dozen unidentified assailants, left two student leaders grievously injured.
In a statement, the NSF said it “stands in unwavering solidarity with the Sirti Thiimjiitam Sourkhe and the entire Monsang Naga community during this distressing time.” It termed the assault “a cowardly act aimed at silencing young leaders devoted to community service,” calling it “utterly unacceptable and deserving of the strongest condemnation.”
Questioning the motive behind what it called a targeted attack, the Federation said the incident comes “at a time when the Naga people are sincerely striving for peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding and goodwill with all neighbouring communities.”
The NSF urged law enforcement agencies to “leave no stone unturned” in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators. “Failure to act swiftly will only embolden such elements who seek to sow division and insecurity in the region,” it warned.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace and justice, the Federation said it would stand “shoulder to shoulder” with the STS and other Naga student bodies until the culprits are brought to justice.
Five arrested in connection with assault on Monsang Naga student leaders
Manipur Police on Friday arrested five individuals in connection with the assault on four Monsang Naga Students’ Union leaders on the night of October 30 near Bijoypur along the Kakching Lamkhai–Pallel Road. The arrests followed widespread condemnation from Naga student organizations across the region.
According to a police statement issued on October 31, the arrested individuals are Elangbam Arun Singh (19) of Pallel Thong Wangma, Mayengbam Manglem Singh (22) of Pallel Chandel Lamkhai, Nepram Jitan Singh (18), Moirangthem Chinglei Meitei (19), and Moirangthem Linthou Meitei, all from Pallel Thong Wangma. Two vehicles used in the assault have been detained for verification, and investigations are ongoing.
The attack occurred around 9:30 p.m. when the student leaders were returning to Chandel after attending a programme in Kakching Lamkhai. They reportedly stopped near Bijoypur for a short break when a group of six to seven unidentified men on an Activa scooter and an E-rickshaw launched an unprovoked assault.
Police have confirmed that the injured students are under medical care and in stable condition. Authorities assured that all legal procedures are being followed and the case will be pursued with utmost seriousness.
