UKHRUL: The Thadou Human Rights Advocacy (THRA) has called for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into remarks made by Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet during a press conference held in Lamka on June 25, contending that his statements warrant criminal investigation.
In a statement issued on Friday, THRA criticised Thanglet’s reported admission expressing regret over the killing of six Naga civilians, arguing that describing the killings as an act committed out of “emotion” could not absolve those responsible of criminal liability.
The advocacy group alleged that the manner in which the six victims were killed reflected a broader pattern of violence and claimed similarities with the killing of Thadou leader Nehkam Jomhao in August 2025. It further alleged that the murders of three Thadou Baptist pastors on May 13 this year were targeted attacks linked to their assertion of a distinct Thadou identity.
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According to THRA, the deaths of Rev. Dr. V. Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou occurred at a KRA/KNO check post between Kotlen and Kotzim villages in a Kuki-majority area. The organisation alleged that the sequence of events surrounding the killings pointed to a deliberate attack, though these claims have not been independently verified.
THRA also questioned what it described as inconsistencies between earlier statements issued by Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the subsequent remarks made by the KZC chairman, alleging possible concealment and obstruction of justice.
The THRA then urged the NIA to investigate the June 25 (Thursday’s) KZC press conference, including whether any individuals or organisations had prior knowledge of, participated in, assisted, concealed or obstructed investigations into the killing of the six Naga civilians.
It also sought a broader investigation into the killing of Nehkam Jomhao and the deaths of the three Thadou pastors, while demanding the arrest and prosecution of all those allegedly involved, irrespective of affiliation. THRA further called for the disarmament of militant groups and strict enforcement of the rule of law.
“Justice cannot be reduced to a press conference spectacle,” the organisation said, adding that apologies alone could not substitute for legal accountability.
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