Senapati, Manipur | EKHON: Amid growing unrest in Manipur’s hill districts, the Tangkhul Naga youth group, Khanuithot-Khon (Voice of the Naga Youth) has strongly condemned the “serious escalation” of violence targeting Naga communities in Senapati and across Southern Nagalim.
The group expressed unwavering solidarity with Naga residents in Senapati, warning that recent incidents are not isolated but part of an emerging pattern threatening the safety, dignity, and security of the people.
According to the statement, tensions peaked on April 21 at T. Khullen village in Senapati district, where volunteers from the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) were reportedly enforcing a peaceful shutdown during a mourning period.
Khanuithot-Khon alleges that the unarmed volunteers were met with stone pelting and gunfire by armed Kuki militants, accompanied by individuals identified as refugees from Changoubung. A vehicle belonging to SDSA was also vandalized.
“This use of force during a solemn moment reflects a deliberate and dangerous escalation,” the statement said.
The group also highlighted the killing of two Tangkhul Naga civilians earlier on April 18 along NH-202, attributing the attack to Kuki militant elements. The incident remains unresolved, further intensifying fear and anger within the community.
Khanuithot-Khon warned of a growing pattern of coordinated violence, alleging increased activity of armed groups in civilian areas. It criticized the weak enforcement of security arrangements, including the Suspension of Operations agreement, which is meant to regulate militant movement and maintain peace.
“Any lapse that allows armed actors to operate freely undermines public safety and erodes trust,” the statement emphasized.
The statement stressed that disputes over land, administration, and identity remain deeply rooted and sensitive. It warned against any attempts to alter ground realities through force or coercion, stating such actions would only deepen divisions and prolong instability.
Reaffirming its stance, Khanuithot-Khon declared its commitment to protecting Naga communities and pursuing justice.
“Peace cannot be sustained without justice. Stability cannot be achieved without accountability. The safety and dignity of our people are not negotiable,” the statement concluded.
