UKHRUL: A resident from Lasan village in Tamenglong District was allegedly shot dead on Tuesday around 1:00 PM. The deceased has been identified as Haogin Lhouyum, son of Khupkam, according to a press statement from the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM).
Strongly condemning the incident, KIM stated that the cold-blooded murder of an innocent civilian reflects the grave failure of the state’s security apparatus, selective deployment of security forces, and ongoing administrative bias against the Kuki-Zo people. “This incident raises serious questions about the continued neglect of vulnerable Kuki-Zo villages in Tamenglong District and the authorities’ failure to ensure their safety and security,” their press statement read.
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The KIM also demanded an explanation from the Manipur Government, the District Administration, and the relevant security agencies regarding why vulnerable Kuki-Zo villages continue to be left exposed to such attacks. They asserted that despite repeated appeals from Kuki-Zo civil society organizations, these communities are still denied the same level of security and protection afforded to other groups.
Additionally, the Kuki civil organization expressed concern over the continued pattern of violence directed against Kuki-Zo civilians. “Kuki Inpi questions why certain Tangkhul-led Naga groups continue to resort to violence against innocent Kuki villagers when peaceful coexistence should be the shared objective of all communities,” they alleged. They added that “such acts only deepen divisions, undermine peace, and erode trust between neighboring communities.”
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The KIM emphasized that the killing of Haogin Lhouyum serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unequal security arrangements and administrative indifference. They cautioned that the repeated failure of the state and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the Kuki-Zo people cannot be tolerated indefinitely. They called for an end to unprovoked attacks that result in the loss of innocent lives and property, warning that authorities should be held accountable if more lives are lost.
Kuki villages deserve equal protection under the law. The authorities must be held accountable for these recurring security failures before more innocent lives are lost.
Additionally, the Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KI-SH) has expressed deep concern over the incident, accusing the ‘NSCN-IM Kamson group’. They reported that the deceased’s remains were not allowed to pass through Makui Village while being transported for final rites.
“At a time when a bereaved family is mourning the loss of a loved one, denying passage to the deceased’s body raises serious humanitarian concerns. Regardless of political differences, ethnic tensions, or ongoing conflicts, respect for the dead and compassion for grieving families are values that must never be compromised,” they stated.
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The KI-SH further mentioned that the Kuki-Zo people have consistently upheld humanitarian principles even during the most challenging periods of the ongoing conflict. They cited the safe passage allowed for the remains of a pastor through Kangpokpi district to Daili Village for burial.
Terming the reported stoppage of the mortal remains unfortunate, the organization seeks clarification and urges all concerned to ensure that humanitarian considerations are respected at all times. “Even in situations of conflict, the dignity of the dead and the rights of grieving families must be protected. Humanitarian values should never become casualties of political or ethnic disputes,” they concluded.