Civil society organisations representing Kuki groups have condemned the killing of two civilians in Manipur’s Ukhrul district and demanded a prompt and impartial investigation into the incident.
In separate statements, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) expressed concern over the reported deaths of Thenkhogin Baite, 45, and Thangboimang Lunkim, 35, both residents of Thawai Kuki village. Another villager, Letginthang Haokip, 29, was reportedly injured and is currently undergoing treatment.
According to KIM, the three individuals were allegedly apprehended on March 11 by suspected cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), commonly known as NSCN-IM. The organisation stated that Baite and Lunkim were later found dead, while Haokip sustained injuries during the incident.
Calling the episode deeply unfortunate, the group urged authorities to conduct a fair and impartial probe to establish the circumstances leading to the deaths. KIM appealed to the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
The organisation also demanded that the case be investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), arguing that an independent probe would help restore public confidence and ensure transparency in the investigation.
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The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust also condemned the incident and said the victims were reportedly engaged in community work when the attack occurred. According to the group, the men were repairing the village water supply system when they were allegedly abducted and later killed.
KOHUR appealed to the authorities for the immediate identification and arrest of those involved and called for stronger measures to ensure the safety of civilians in the hill districts.
Meanwhile, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) based in Kangpokpi district also reacted to the incident, urging the government to take swift action and ensure justice for the victims.
The organisation said prompt intervention by the authorities was essential to prevent the situation from escalating further in the region, which has witnessed periodic tensions among different groups.
The civil society bodies emphasised that the protection of civilian lives must remain a priority and appealed to all stakeholders to exercise restraint and support efforts aimed at preserving peace and stability in the region.
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