Ukhrul, Manipur | EKHON: In an effort to de-escalate tensions and restore normalcy amid recent violence, Tangkhul Naga legislators Ram Muivah and Leishiyo Keishing convened a key meeting with the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) at its headquarters in Wino Bazar, Ukhrul.
The meeting follows reports of violence in Shangkai and Sharkaphung, along with escalating tensions along the Imphal–Ukhrul highway, particularly between Litan and Shangkai, raising serious safety concerns for residents and commuters.
Addressing the media, Ram Muivah stated that the purpose of the visit was to engage directly with the apex Tangkhul body to better understand the situation on the ground and listen to public grievances.
“We are deeply concerned about the violence in Shangkai and the tension along the highway. Our visit was to hear the concerns of Tangkhul Naga Long and explore ways to restore peace. The discussion was cordial, and we received valuable suggestions, which will be conveyed to the Chief Minister,” he said.
Muivah added that the delegation would also reach out to members of the Kuki community in Mongkot Chepu and Shangkai to initiate dialogue and promote reconciliation.
Both MLAs reiterated their commitment to inclusive engagement with all stakeholders and assured that the inputs gathered would be taken forward to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
The Naga MLAs also met the two injured civilian at the Ukhrul district hospital. They were shot at by the Kuki militants at Sharkaphung, Ukhrul district.
At Litan Police Station, the legislators were briefed by security personnel from the police, BSF, and CRPF on the prevailing law and order situation. They later met Kuki civil society organisations and village leaders in Shangkai, a village located along NH-202. Ukhrul DC and SP were also present at the meeting.
Despite fresh firing incidents reported in Sharkaphung on Tuesday, which left two individuals injured, the MLAs undertook the road journey along the Imphal–Ukhrul stretch to assess the situation firsthand and instill confidence among the public.
Currently, commuters from Ukhrul and Kamjong districts are being forced to take a longer route via Hongbei under Kasom subdivision, extending travel time to Imphal to over 10 hours.
According to sources, the MLAs assured that they would urge Yumnam Khemchand Singh to enhance security measures along NH-202, especially between Wungvei (Mahadev) and Litan, to ensure safe passage for civilians.
They also indicated plans to request the Chief Minister to reconsider the state government’s decision to transfer the Thawai case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
