Tensions Escalate in Manipur Following Discovery of Kuki Youths' Bodies
Unrest in Manipur After Recovery of Missing Youths
Angry residents gather in Kangpokpi after the confirmation of the deaths of two missing Kuki youths. (Photo: AT)
Imphal, Nov 2: Manipur is experiencing heightened tensions following the recovery of two Kuki youths who had been missing since October 28 from Taphou Kuki village. Their bodies were found, leading to violent clashes between protesters and security personnel in the Kangpokpi district.
In response to the escalating situation, security forces deployed tear gas to disperse large crowds that had gathered outside the Superintendent of Police's office.
Reports indicate that several individuals sustained injuries during the confrontations, which intensified after the confirmation of the youths' deaths.
Amid the turmoil, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) from Sadar Hills has stated that they will not claim the bodies until the government addresses their five-point demands.
The organization has accused armed Naga militants of abducting the youths from Taphou Kuki village.
CoTU spokesperson Ng. Lun Kipgen emphasized, “The Kuki-Zo community will not accept or claim the deceased until our demands are met.”
The five demands include the immediate removal of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who is accused of failing to ensure the youths' safe return. Other demands involve transferring Taphou Kuki village's jurisdiction from the Senapati SP to the Kangpokpi SP, withdrawing all NSCN-IM camps from Senapati district, transferring the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and arresting those responsible for the incident.
In light of these developments, Kipgen announced an extension of the total shutdown in the area.
According to the Manipur Police Control Room, extensive search operations were initiated after the youths went missing. A joint operation involving various security forces led to the recovery of the bodies near National Highway-2 along the SP Road.
The deceased have been identified as Paoginlal Hangs ing (20) and Tinginlun Chongloi (20), and their bodies were taken to Kangpokpi District Hospital, where a large crowd gathered upon identification.
Authorities confirmed that legal procedures are underway, and search operations will continue to identify and apprehend those responsible for the incident.