Tensions Rise in Manipur's Kamjong as Kuki Civilians Face Violence and Displacement

Tensions Rise in Manipur's Kamjong as Kuki Civilians Face Violence and Displacement\n\nIn a disturbing turn of events, at least 15 houses belonging to the Kuki tribal community were reportedly burnt by suspected militants in Chassad village, Manipur's Kamjong district. The incident, which occurred late on Saturday night, has forced civilians to flee their homes and take shelter in nearby forest areas and a camp of security forces.\n\nAccording to reports, a Kuki civilian, identified as Seikhohao Haokip, was killed and four others sustained bullet injuries in a gun attack earlier in the day. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the violence, expressing grief over Haokip's death and concern for the injured village leaders and displaced families.\n\nDescribing the burning of houses as an intolerable crime, Kipgen directed the district administration, state police, and security forces to maintain round-the-clock vigilance, protect civilians and their property, and ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.\n\nA joint column of the Assam Rifles, the Border Security Force (BSF), and Kamjong Police has been deployed in the affected area to bring the situation under control.\n\nIn a separate incident at Kamjong district headquarters on Saturday night, three Tangkhul Naga civilians sustained bullet injuries in an attack reportedly involving rival armed groups. The injured were identified as T. Chithung, S. Malung, and M. Shithung, who were admitted to Kamjong Hospital with stable conditions.\n\nBoth Chassad village and Kamjong district headquarters are located near the India-Myanmar border, a sensitive area that has witnessed security concerns amid tensions between armed groups.\n\nLocal accounts suggest that residents fled their homes amid fears for their safety, with Chassad Police Station reportedly receiving information about the incident on Sunday.\n\nA spot inquiry had not been conducted by the time of reporting, reportedly due to a shortage of personnel.\n\nThe full extent of the damage caused by the arson, the circumstances surrounding the attacks, and the identities of those involved remain unverified.\n\nThe Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the apex body of the Kuki-Zo tribals, has expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in Kamjong district, particularly Chassad village.\n\nWithin just over a week, four Kuki-Zo civilians have been killed, exposing the government's failure to protect innocent lives, the organisation said.\n\nThe KZC questioned why NSCN-IM cadres are reportedly allowed to operate freely in Kamjong, Ukhrul, and Chandel districts, despite the ceasefire arrangement being understood to apply to Nagaland.\n\n"The Government of India must clarify this situation and take immediate action to stop further attacks. An economic embargo is also reportedly preventing Kuki-Zo civilians in Kamjong from purchasing essential commodities," the KZC said.\n\nThe tribal body demanded unrestricted access to essential supplies and the immediate deployment of Central security forces between the Police Station and Chassad village to protect civilians.\n\nThe Kuki-Zo people are citizens of India and are entitled to equal protection under the Constitution.\n\nThe government must act urgently to prevent further loss of life and ensure their safety and dignity, the statement said.\n\nIn light of these developments, it is essential for the government to take immediate action to address the security concerns in Kamjong district and ensure the protection of Kuki civilians.\n\nThe situation demands a comprehensive approach, including the deployment of Central security forces, unrestricted access to essential supplies, and a thorough investigation into the incidents.\n\nOnly through a concerted effort can the government ensure the safety and dignity of Kuki civilians and restore peace in the region.