UKHRUL: Condemnations continue to pour in over the fatal ambush at TM Kasom along National Highway-202 in Ukhrul District, Manipur, on April 18. The ambush claimed the lives of two Tangkhul Naga civilians, Chinaoshang Shokwungnao from Tashar village and Yaruingam Vashum from Kharasom village.
The Naga Students’ Union, Delhi (NSUD), the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Nagaland (ZSUN), Angami Students’ Union (ASU), and the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) have condemned this tragic incident in the strongest terms.
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The Naga student bodies stated that the loss of innocent lives affects not only the families directly involved but also the entire Naga community. Also, they demanded a swift, impartial, and thorough investigation to ensure justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable. They warned that any failure in this regard would represent a serious dereliction of duty and a profound affront to justice.
Expressing its deepest sorrow, the NSUD described the loss of innocent civilian lives as not only heartbreaking but also a grave violation of justice, human dignity, and the fundamental right to life guaranteed in a democratic nation. It asserted that any act leading to the loss of innocent civilian lives is wholly unacceptable and violates the rule of law and the moral fabric of society. Such incidents erode public trust in institutions and weaken the foundational principles of peace and unity that bind our diverse nation.
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The NSUD reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the dignity, rights, and safety of the Naga people while continuing to advocate for justice within the framework of law. United in purpose, they stand for a nation where every citizen can live without fear, and where justice prevails above all.
The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) terms the attack as a ‘cowardly act of violence’ that directly assaults peace, security, and harmonious coexistence among their people. Also, it stated that such violence undermines human values and threatens the very structure of society.
The AKM also stated that the inhumane act against unarmed civilians is deeply troubling and constitutes a gross violation of human dignity, fundamental rights, and the sanctity of life. It reiterated its opposition to all forms of violence while committing to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and security of the people. It also urges society to remain united and uphold peace, refusing to let such acts divide them.
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The Zeliangrong Students’ Union (ZSUN) states that the deliberate targeting of unarmed civilians is a blatant violation of humanitarian principles and a severe infringement on the fundamental right of people to live in peace and security within their own homeland. Such acts not only endanger innocent lives but also undermine societal harmony and the collective pursuit of lasting peace.
Further, it unequivocally rejects such brutality and remains committed to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and security of the Naga homeland at all costs.
The Angami Students’ Union (ASU) stated that it views the incident not merely as a localized incident but as a grave violation of the sanctity of life. It also refuses to accept a reality where manslaughter and fear compromise the safety of individuals. “To us, the right to live in peace is non-negotiable; it is the bedrock of any civilized society, and any act of violence that threatens this peace is an assault on the shared security of the entire Naga family and humanity at large,” it said.
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Furthermore, the ASU said, “Reflecting on our responsibility as a constituent of the Naga brotherhood, the ASU maintains that the value of human life remains absolute and transcends all administrative and geographical distinctions. We believe that the integrity of our social fabric depends on mutual respect and the protection of every individual’s dignity, regardless of where they reside. There is no place in our community for those who perpetrate such acts of violence.”
The ASU remains committed to an environment where the freedom to live without fear is a guaranteed reality for every Naga, honoring their shared heritage and common interests.
Strongly denouncing the brutal incident, the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) stated that such acts of violence are deeply disturbing and strike at the very core of our shared humanity and peaceful coexistence.
While extending its solidarity and condolences to the bereaved families, the SKK also urges every section of society to remain calm yet united. It also asserted that their strength lies in their solidarity, not in fear. Violence must never define us, nor should it weaken our collective resolve to stand for what is right, it said.
“In remembrance of the precious lives lost, and in unity with the larger Naga community, All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) remains committed to standing with our Naga brothers, upholding truth, and working towards a safer and more just society for all. Together, we will honor their memory and reaffirm our shared hope for justice, peace, and dignity,” the student body said.