Protesters gather in Imphal during a mass rally demanding action over the continuing unrest in Manipur. (Img: X)
Imphal: Three Kuki-Zo people were killed during an armed confrontation involving Naga groups in Manipur's Noney district on Saturday, November 1, triggering fresh concerns over the state's fragile security situation. The incident came as thousands of Meitei and Naga protesters gathered in Imphal, bringing normal activities across parts of the state capital to a halt.
The confrontation reportedly occurred around 9 am near Tajekaiphun village in Noney district, an area predominantly inhabited by the Rongmei Naga community.
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Reacting to the killings, Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) alleged that cadres belonging to NSCN-IM and ZUF (K) were responsible for the attack. The organisation condemned the incident, questioned the government's security arrangements in vulnerable Kuki-Zo settlements and demanded accountability from the authorities.
Meanwhile, a large protest rally was organised in Imphal against alleged militant activities and what demonstrators described as the Centre's proxy conflict involving Kuki SoO groups.
The protesters presented a six-point set of demands, including ending the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement, removing militant camps, checking weapons held by cadres and ensuring the rehabilitation of displaced residents.
Other demands included deploying a neutral security force, withdrawing Assam Rifles from sensitive areas and introducing an NRC with 1951 as its reference year.
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The demonstration was organised by several Meitei and Naga civil society organisations. Similar marches were also reported in Senapati and Chandel.
Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh, addressing a National Unity Day programme, called for governance that protects the interests of every community rather than favouring particular groups.
Tensions also remained high in Kangpokpi, where thousands of Kuki-Zo residents demonstrated, seeking the safe release of two boys allegedly abducted on October 28.
The developments highlight the continuing security challenges and deepening mistrust among communities in Manipur.
