Manipur Government Transfers Kuki-Zo Couple Murder Case to NIA
Government Action Following Tragic Incident
The couple who were killed in Tollen village violence on Sept 13 (Image)
Imphal, Sep 15: The government of Manipur has decided to transfer the investigation into the murder of Kuki-Zo couple, Seikhoneh and Lhingjangai Singsit, to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
This decision follows an agreement reached with a Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in response to the incident.
The agreement includes provisions for compensation to the grieving family, medical care for their injured four-year-old son, and support for their four minor children.
SDO Tousem Paul Nangsha stated in a phone interview that the JAC's requests have been accepted, describing the resolution as 'amicably settled.'
He confirmed that compensation would be provided in accordance with state government guidelines, with all commitments to be fulfilled within 30 days.
The Chief Minister’s Office has indicated that there is a plan to officially hand over the case to the NIA, although specific details of the process are not yet available.
The couple was tragically killed by armed assailants on September 13 in Tollen village, Tamenglong district, leaving their four children, aged between four and twelve, without parents.
Their youngest son, Henminsang Singsit, sustained serious injuries during the attack. The government has promised to provide him with the best medical care until he fully recovers, covering all associated costs.
Kuki-Zo women protest in Tamenglong as security forces oversee the situation (Image)
The government has also pledged to provide compensation to the family and support for the four children: Chongunsem Singsit (12), Sehboineng Singsit (10), Lhunkhohao Singsit (7), and Henminsang (4).
Support from the government is expected to continue until the children reach adulthood.
The agreement also includes the deployment of additional Central security forces in Tollen, Kaimai, and Thingtuhbung-Kulbung, which have been identified as vulnerable areas following recent violence.
The government will be held responsible for any incidents if the agreed-upon measures are not implemented within the specified 30-day timeframe.
The agreement was signed by SDO Tousem Paul Nangsha and SP Tamenglong Luikham Lanmiyo, MPS, on behalf of the government. JAC convenor Seilen Singson and secretary Jangkhothang Khongsai signed for the affected family, while Satkholen Haokip, secretary of Kuki Inpi Jiribam, Tamenglong and Noney (Kuki Inpi JTN), represented civil society organizations.
This agreement was reached amid increasing pressure from Kuki-Zo civil society groups, who had threatened to initiate a total shutdown, economic blockade, and other forms of protest if their demands were not met.