The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), apex body of the Kuki tribes, has strongly denounced the ambush near TM Kasom in Ukhrul district yesterday that claimed two lives, calling the act “heinous” and “unwarranted.”
In a press statement issued today, KIM expressed profound grief and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families. The organisation said it has consistently appealed for calm and restraint despite “persistent attempts by certain sections of the Tangkhul community to foment discord” following the Litan incident.
KIM noted that despite “repeated provocations and targeted attacks on Kukis in Sinakeithel and Litan areas,” the community has refrained from retaliation to avoid escalation into inter-community conflict. While retaliatory action could have followed earlier incidents, including the killing of two individuals at Thowai, KIM said the community deliberately chose restraint to prevent outbreak of a wider conflict.
The statement termed it “regrettable” that the United Naga Council and the Tangkhul Naga Long had “prematurely attributed culpability to the Kuki community” despite denials of involvement. “Attributing criminal acts to an entire community without evidence is unjust and socially and morally indefensible,” KIM said.
KIM pointed to “credible reports” of multiple armed groups operating in the affected areas, including valley-based insurgent groups (VBIGs) and elements such as Arambai Tenggol “helping the Khanuithot Khon” around Sinakeithel and Litan, alleging intent to aggravate hostilities. It added that possible vested political interests seeking to destabilize law and order “cannot be overlooked.”
The body called for a “thorough, impartial, and time-bound investigation” by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), asserting that any individual found guilty, irrespective of community affiliation, must face justice.
“KIM, along with its civil society organizations, affirms that it shall neither shield nor support any individual involved in acts of violence against civilians. Peace, justice, and accountability must prevail,” said Janghoulun Haokip, Information Secretary, KIM.
