Ukhrul, Jan 8: Several Naga bodies have condemned the alleged assault and outraging the modesty of a Naga woman at K. Lungwiram village by a group of Kuki individuals and have demanded an immediate apology from the perpetrating community. An indefinite shutdown has also been imposed in the Makhan area in protest against the alleged assault.
Condemning the incident, the Joint Tribe Students’ Association comprising the All Inpui Student Union, Liangmai Naga Katimai Ruangdi Manipur, Rongmei Naga Students’ Association Manipur, and Zeme Students’ Organisation Manipur, “questioned the involvement of refugees in a matter that concerned a private owner’s legitimate activities” and added that “the owner has every liberty to work on the land without seeking permission from anyone”.
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“The construction work shall continue smoothly and we strongly demand the perpetrators to surrender themselves to the people of K. Lungwiram. Failure to comply will result in serious consequences where the Kuki people will be held accountable,” it warned.
The body also directed the volunteers of the four cognate tribes to remain vigilant and prepare for any untoward eventualities.
The Liangmai Naga Council-Eastern Zone, along with the Liangmai Koubru Range Chief and Chairman Association, has described the recent assault as a serious violation of the long-standing land rights of the Liangmai Naga people. They emphasized that there is no dispute over the land where the incident occurred, as it rightfully belongs to the K Lungwisaram village.
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The bodies described the assault as a preplanned and unforgivable act committed by a community that had sought “refuge” on Naga soil. They urged the concerned authorities to apprehend the perpetrators immediately and hold them accountable. They also demanded a formal and written apology from the offending community to the victim and the Naga people within 24 hours failing which the bodies would take appropriate measures to protect the welfare of the Naga people.
Joining the chorus of condemnation, the Foothill Naga Joint Action Committee also demanded an apology from the Kukis within 48 hours of issuing this ultimatum and added that appropriate measures would be taken to protect the welfare of the Nagas if their demands were not met. It further added that in case of any bloodshed, the Kuki leaders would be held responsible.
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