Tragic Ambush Claims Life of Naga Student in Tamenglong District

A 17-year-old Naga Liangmai student was tragically killed in an ambush in Tamenglong district, sparking outrage and calls for justice. The Working Committee, Joint Tribes Council Manipur, has accused Kuki militant groups of the attack and linked it to recent political tensions. As the community demands accountability and enhanced security measures, concerns grow over the safety of civilians in the region. The incident highlights ongoing conflicts and the need for urgent action from authorities to prevent further violence.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 21, 2026, 16:28 IST

Incident Overview

The boy was reportedly going to school when he was shot. (AT Photo)

Imphal, Sept 21: A tragic incident occurred on Monday morning when a 17-year-old student from the Naga Liangmai community was reportedly killed in an ambush while walking in the Tamei region of Tamenglong district.

The ambush took place around 10:05 am between Upper Takou and Malek village, as reported by the Working Committee, Joint Tribes Council Manipur (WC-JTCM).

Initially, the attack was described as targeting a Naga civilian along the Upper Nkou-Tamei road.

The WC-JTCM has accused armed groups affiliated with the Kuki community, specifically naming the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA), KNF (P), KNF (N), and other associated factions, as responsible for the attack.

However, these allegations have not been independently verified, and there has been no immediate official confirmation regarding the attackers' identities.

The WC-JTCM claims that the groups mentioned operate under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and has called for immediate action against any group found to breach this agreement.

Additionally, the organization linked this incident to the recent arrest and subsequent release of seven Kuki individuals, suggesting that their release without sufficient legal repercussions may have contributed to the violence.

Allegations of political collusion involving Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen have also been made, though these claims remain unverified.

The WC-JTCM is urging both state and Central governments to condemn the killing, identify those responsible, and take action against any groups violating the SoO arrangement.

They are also calling for enhanced security measures in Liangmai Naga villages and other vulnerable Naga communities, alongside demands for justice for the slain student.

This incident has heightened concerns regarding the safety of civilians traveling along the Upper Takou-Malek-Tamei route, amidst ongoing security issues in the area.

Further details regarding the security response, recovery of the body, any arrests, or police accounts of the incident are still pending.