Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex civil body representing the Naga community in Manipur, has submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh following the recovery of the bodies of six Naga hostages who were allegedly abducted and killed.
In its petition, the council stated that the families of the victims, along with the UNC, would not accept the mortal remains until their demands are addressed and concrete action is taken by the authorities.
The UNC has called for the immediate termination of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with all Kuki militant groups. It has also sought the arrest and prosecution of all members of the Kuki National Front-President Group (KNF-P) allegedly involved in the abduction of 18 Naga civilians, including two pastors, from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13.
Condemning the killing of six of the abducted individuals, the Naga body urged the government to ensure swift legal action against those responsible. The memorandum further demanded the arrest of all persons allegedly linked to the killing of Wilson Thanga Chiru at Joujangtek on the same day.
Among those named by the council are Lalboi Vaiphei, chief of Leilon Vaiphei village, and several other villagers who were allegedly involved in the abduction and subsequent killings. The UNC also sought action against Thanggilian Vaiphei, a serving Manipur Police personnel, whom it accused of direct involvement in the incident.
The organisation additionally urged the Centre to designate the KNF-P as a terrorist organisation. It also demanded the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen from office, citing her marital relationship with KNF-P president Semtinthang Kipgen, also known as Thangboi Kipgen.
According to the UNC, retaining her in the state government raises concerns over public confidence and security, given the allegations surrounding the militant outfit.
The council appealed to both the state and central governments to take immediate and decisive measures, stating that such action would help restore trust among affected communities and demonstrate the government’s commitment to justice.
Reiterating its stand, the UNC said the bodies of the six victims would not be formally received by their families until the government addresses the charter of demands and ensures accountability for those responsible for the killings.