Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC) has petitioned Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, seeking the dismissal of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen from the state Cabinet, alleging a “structural conflict of interest” linked to the investigation into the killing of six Naga civilians.
In its petition, the UNC invoked Article 164(1) of the Constitution, contending that Kipgen’s continuance in office could compromise the integrity of the investigation and undermine public confidence in the rule of law.
The petition follows an earlier memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister on June 12, to which the UNC said it had received no response.
The council referred to the investigation into the abduction and killing of six unarmed Naga civilians at Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13, 2026. According to the petition, the case is being investigated under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and has been registered as FIR No. 23(5)2026-GSPM-PS under Section 16(1)(b) of the Act.
The UNC alleged that the Kuki National Front-President Group (KNF-P), operating under the United Peoples’ Front (UPF), has been implicated in the case.
The organisation further alleged that ST Thangboi Kipgen, identified in the petition as chairman of the UPF and president of the KNF-P, has direct familial ties to the Deputy Chief Minister, creating what it described as a serious conflict of interest.
According to the UNC, the Deputy Chief Minister’s continuation in the Cabinet could affect the independence of the investigation, including any probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and undermine the rule of law.
The petition also cited the oath of office prescribed under the Third Schedule of the Constitution, stating that ministers are required to discharge their duties without fear or favour. It alleged that Kipgen’s continuance in office provided an “institutional shield” to the accused organisation.
The council further claimed that the area where the abductions and killings took place falls within the Deputy Chief Minister’s political constituency and administrative sphere of influence.
Describing the matter as one affecting public confidence in constitutional governance, the UNC urged the Governor to exercise powers under Article 164(1) of the Constitution and dismiss Kipgen from the Council of Ministers.