IMPHAL: Amid the ongoing strife in Manipur, an alleged assault of an individual from the Liangmei Naga tribe along the Imphal-Tamenglong road have reignited concerns over violence in the region. In response to the incident, the Ahangruak Chief Chairman Association, a Naga organisation in Kangpokpi, imposed a total shutdown in Liangmei Naga-dominated areas of Kangpokpi District as a form of protest.
According to the local press, the incident occurred near the Chalwa Police Outpost around 7:30 am on Tuesday when suspected cadres of the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA), who are currently under Suspension of Operation agreements with both the Centre and state government, demanded Rs 300 from the victim, Z Hotngambou.
The situation escalated when Hotngambou refused and mentioned that the UNC, Naga Hoho, and NNC (Naga National Council) authorities have asked Naga people not to succumb to extortion.
Addressing the press at Manipur Press Club on Tuesday, Hotngambou, the former Chairman of Lenglong Village under Tamei Sub-division, narrated that the assault occurred while he was returning from his farm with his wife and son in a pick-up truck loaded with bananas for sale.
The victim alleged that two KRA cadres allegedly attacked him in front of his family before retreating to Chalwa Police outpost, which is currently being utilised as a relief camp for displaced Kuki residents.
He further recounted another disturbing encounter saying that when he reached Kangpokpi, UKLF (United Kuki Liberation Front) cadres reportedly demanded money. Fearing for his safety, he negotiated with them and handed over Rs. 2,000.
Expressing outrage over the attack, Lenglong Village Chairman K Jindaibou condemned the involvement of Kuki insurgents in extortion activities targeting Nagas along the Imphal-Tamenglong (IT) road. He called upon the government to promptly address these concerns and ensure the safety of the local population.
