Manipur CM Promises Justice for Naga Civilians Amid Ongoing Tensions

Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has vowed to ensure justice for six Naga civilians who were abducted and murdered in Leilon Vaiphei. Following the incident, two suspects have been arrested, but three remain at large, prompting widespread protests and demands for accountability from Naga organizations. The victims' bodies are still unclaimed at the JNIMS mortuary, intensifying the call for justice. Singh's commitment comes amid rising tensions in the region, as the community seeks answers and action from authorities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 16:43 IST

Commitment to Justice in Manipur

CM Singh interacting with the press at the SEEDS Complex, Olympian Park, on Saturday. (AT Photo)

Imphal, July 11: Yumnam Khemchand Singh, the Chief Minister of Manipur, expressed his commitment to ensuring justice for the six Naga civilians who were abducted and killed in Leilon Vaiphei.

During a press interaction at the launch of the "Uningthou Uyok" plantation initiative at the SEEDS Complex, he stated that law enforcement has been directed to take all necessary actions to apprehend the remaining suspects.

"Two suspects have already been arrested based on information provided by the victims' families," the Chief Minister noted.

The apprehended individuals are Pradip, son of Tomba, and his wife Ayingbi, both from Leilon Vaiphei village.

They were captured during a coordinated operation on Thursday involving the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Manipur Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

Following their arrest, the couple was presented before the Special NIA Court in Thoubal, where they were remanded to custody for 12 days by Judge Ningthoujam Lanleima.

Singh mentioned that he visited Makhan village after the incident, accompanied by local MLAs, to meet with grieving families, during which five individuals were identified as being involved in the killings.

While two suspects are in custody, the identities of the remaining three have not been disclosed for security reasons. The Chief Minister assured that efforts are ongoing to locate these individuals.

The incident has become a significant flashpoint in Manipur, leading to widespread protests and an economic blockade by Naga groups demanding justice.

The bodies of the six victims remain at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) mortuary, with Naga civil society organizations refusing to claim them until justice is served.

This tragic event dates back to May 13, when three pastors were killed in an ambush by unidentified assailants. Following this, around 18 individuals were reportedly captured at Leilon Vaiphei by suspected Kuki militants, with twelve later released and six civilians abducted.

The six abducted civilians were later discovered dead, showing signs of mutilation, which has heightened outrage among Naga organizations and sparked ongoing protests for accountability.

With three suspects still unaccounted for and the victims' bodies unclaimed at the JNIMS mortuary, there is increasing pressure on authorities to conclude the investigation and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.