Ukhrul, Manipur | EKHON: Just days after a combing operation by Central Security Forces, Kuki armed groups including those under Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements allegedly launched an early morning attack on Naga Village Guards (NVGs) stationed at Ringui Horei Kaphung at around 4.am today.
According to reliable sources, the attack reportedly left five Naga village volunteers injured.
The Working Committee of the TNL has strongly condemned the incident, calling it a “premeditated attack” and raising serious questions about the intent and effectiveness of such security operations.
According to the statement, this is not an isolated case. The Committee highlighted a pattern in which combing operations in Naga areas are allegedly followed by attacks from Kuki armed groups, including those under Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements. It cited an April 28 operation in Lungter Hills, Sinakeithei, which was reportedly followed by an attack on the same evening.
The TNL questioned whether these operations are merely “optics for public consumption” rather than genuine efforts to neutralize militant threats.
Further allegations were made regarding events between April 30 and May 2. Security forces had reportedly conducted operations in Ringui and nearby areas, including Shongphel and Mullam villages—described as strongholds of Kuki armed groups. However, on May 2, civilians traveling along NH-202 near Yaolen village allegedly came under heavy fire from Kuki positions. The Committee claims that while subsequent operations targeted Naga defensive positions in New Haven, no action was taken against the alleged source of the attack at Yaolen despite requests.
The statement also referenced an earlier April 5 incident in Thoyee village, where it claims that following an attack by Kuki militants, security forces dismantled Naga defensive structures the next day instead of pursuing the alleged perpetrators.
The TNL Working Committee asserted that Naga Village Guards have acted strictly in self-defense throughout the ongoing tensions. It accused Central Security Forces of failing to act against aggressors and, more seriously, of allegedly sharing intelligence that exposes NVG positions.
“These actions point to a disturbing pattern of complicity,” the statement said, calling it a “grave betrayal” of the mandate to protect civilians.
In a significant escalation of rhetoric, the Committee warned that continued inaction or alleged bias by the Government of India could push Naga groups to seek international intervention. It framed the situation as part of a broader struggle for Naga self-determination and sovereignty.
