UKHRUL: The Naga Women’s Union (NWU) on Thursday expressed grief over the death of a Naga Village Guard during an armed attack at Bitiang Naga Village in Manipur’s Noney district and demanded a prompt, impartial investigation into the incident.
In a statement, the Union mourned the death of Pouh Lanbimei Riamei (29), who was killed on July 29 while defending Bitiang Village, located about 17 kilometres from Noney. The NWU described Riamei as a devoted Village Guard who made the “supreme sacrifice” while protecting the ancestral land, rights and dignity of the Naga people.
The Union said Riamei was killed by armed adversaries during the attack and paid tribute to what it described as his courage, commitment and selfless service. It added that his sacrifice would remain an enduring symbol of resilience and inspire future generations to uphold justice and safeguard the rights and heritage of the Naga people.
Alongside its condolence message, the NWU strongly condemned the armed attack carried out at Bitiang Village, alleging that the incident involved a combined operation by the ZUF-J and personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including the CoBRA unit. The Union claimed that the Village Guard was killed while defending the village during the armed assault.
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The NWU stated that security forces have a constitutional and professional responsibility to exercise restraint, protect civilian lives and uphold the rule of law without bias. It expressed concern over what it described as misplaced priorities and questioned the commitment to justice, accountability and equal protection under the law.
The Union further asserted that security agencies should prioritise bringing to justice those responsible for the abduction and killing of six Naga civilians in an earlier incident. It alleged that the perpetrators were based in Leilon Vaiphei village and urged security forces to apprehend those responsible for what it described as the “brutal murder” of the six victims.
Calling for accountability, the NWU reiterated its demand for an impartial and transparent investigation into the killing of Riamei and urged the Government and concerned authorities to ensure justice is delivered without delay.
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The Union also renewed its appeal for a review and reduction of what it termed excessive security deployment in Naga areas, claiming that the heavy militarisation of Manipur has not improved the security situation but has instead led to the mistreatment of civilians.
Reaffirming its commitment to justice, peace and human rights, the NWU said it would continue to advocate for the protection of the dignity, rights and security of the Naga people.
