UKHRUL: The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) Working Committee (WC) has raised serious concerns over the role of security forces in the ongoing tensions between Kuki militants and Tangkhul Naga civilians in Manipur. The committee alleged repeated instances of armed attacks on civilians and commuters along National Highway 202-A since the outbreak of violence at Litan on February 7, 2026.
According to the statement, the latest incident occurred on Saturday at around 11:30 am, when civilian vehicles traveling between TM Kasom and New Heaven came under heavy firing from sophisticated weapons. The attack, reportedly launched from Yaolen village, a Kuki settlement across the Thoubal River brought movement along the highway to a complete halt. Shortly after, militants allegedly extended the offensive toward TM Kasom village, inhabited by Tangkhul Nagas.
The committee further claimed that Yaolen village has a significant presence of central security forces tasked with maintaining law and order, raising concerns over their alleged inaction during such attacks. TNL WC described the incidents as “highly condemnable” and questioned why armed offensives were allowed to occur in areas under security coverage.
ALSO READ: ‘We Hear More Gunfire Than School Bells’: Sinakeithei Students Protest Ongoing Attacks
National Highway 202-A, described as a crucial lifeline connecting Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, has reportedly remained disrupted for nearly three months. The disruption follows a series of incidents, including hijacking of vehicles, abductions, extortion, armed attacks that led to civilian casualties, and blockades.
In its statement, the committee posed several questions to both the State and Central governments, seeking clarification on whether security forces are taking adequate steps to prevent violence. It also questioned why alleged militant activities continue unchecked in areas where forces are deployed.
The statement also referred to an incident on May 3, 2026, involving personnel of the Assam Rifles. According to the committee, troops from an outpost at Leingangching (Laho) dismantled bunkers set up by village volunteers at New Heaven along NH 202-A. While the community stated it had no objection to such actions if aimed at restoring peace, it expressed concern that similar measures were not taken in Yaolen village, which it described as a “hotspot” for attacks.
ALSO READ: Song Song Village Authority Opposes Road Work in Disputed Koziie Area
The TNL WC said requests by TM Kasom villagers for similar action in Yaolen were reportedly declined by the Assam Rifles, further fueling allegations of bias. The committee called on authorities to clarify the intent behind such decisions and ensure accountability.
Stating that the Tangkhul Naga community has exercised restraint, the committee urged both State and Central governments to clearly define their position and take corrective steps. It warned that failure to address the situation could lead to further escalation and called for immediate measures to restore peace and security in the region.