UKHRUL: The continuing cycle of violence in Manipur cannot be viewed in isolation. It must be understood in the context of unresolved grievances, perceived injustice, and the failure of those in authority to address the sentiments of the outraged Naga people over the inhuman slaughter of their 6 fellow brothers.
Despite keeping the 14 Kukis in Naga custody safe, treating them well, providing them with good food, and eventually releasing them in the hope of the safe return of their own brothers, the Nagas were instead confronted with the horrific sight of the bodies of the 6 Nagas, brutally chopped, mutilated, and dismembered.
Most Nagas felt betrayed, humiliated, and insulted by the authorities, the leaders involved, and the Kukis.
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The Government of India has the authority, resources, manpower, and legal mechanisms to prevent and stop violence if it truly wishes to do so. Yet, since 3 May 2023, violence has continued. The Government cannot escape its share of responsibility.
From the outset, the Governments of India, Manipur, Nagaland, and Meghalaya, together with Naga leaders and church leaders, worked tirelessly to secure the safe release of the 14 Kukis who were in Naga custody. Throughout this period, the 14 Kukis were treated well and eventually released safely by the Nagas. At the same time, the Naga people waited with hope for the safe return of their 6 abducted Naga brothers, while security forces conducted search operations for nearly a month without success.
Only after the 14 Kukis had been safely released were the 6 Nagas found dead in a horrific condition.
Initially, Kuki leaders and organisations, including the Kuki-Zo Council, stated that they did not know the whereabouts of the 6 Nagas. Later, however, statements emerged acknowledging that the 6 Nagas had been killed by their own people, claiming the killings were committed “out of emotion.”
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These developments left many Nagas with difficult questions. If those responsible have been identified, if Leilon Vaiphei was linked to the case, and if the killings have been acknowledged, where are the arrests, the prosecution, and the justice?
The failure to deliver timely justice has deepened public anger and mistrust.
While extraordinary efforts were made to secure the lives of the 14 Kukis, the same urgency was not shown in pursuing justice for the 6 slain Nagas. This has left the Nagas feeling ignored, deeply hurt, and betrayed.
As violence continues, accountability cannot rest solely with those directly involved in the attacks. The Government and all those entrusted with maintaining peace must also answer why decisive action has not been taken to end the bloodshed and ensure justice.
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For the Nagas, these questions remain unanswered, and until they are addressed with justice, accountability, and equal concern for every innocent life, the cycle of violence risks continuing.
