Kangpokpi: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi, accused the Naga armed groups of pursuing what it described as a “balkanization” agenda in the region, alleging targeted violence against Kuki-Zo civilians and warning that it cannot be held responsible for any consequences following the expiry of its 48-hour ultimatum on restoring free movement of essential supplies along National Highway-2.
CoTU alleged that while there were no “blaring sirens, armed mobs or heavily armed men disguised as commandos” as witnessed during previous episodes of violence, the region continues to witness what it termed an atmosphere of “hatred, misinformation and clandestine assassination attempts” allegedly targeting unarmed civilians. The organisation claimed that the threat has shifted from open violence to covert attacks and sustained media campaigns.
The committee further alleged that while India aspires to emerge as an economic power in Southeast Asia, it has failed to address internal security concerns in the Northeast by allegedly allowing armed Tangkhul insurgent groups, including the NSCN-IM and other outfits, to operate freely. It accused these groups of destabilising peace, threatening public safety and disrupting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens across the region.
Referring to the killing of three Baptist Church leaders from the Kuki-Zo community on May 13 this year in Kangpokpi district, CoTU described the incident as a reflection of the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023. It further alleged that “fascist and hegemonic” ideologies propagated by certain Meitei and Tangkhul political leaders require a thorough investigation if democratic values are to be preserved.
The committee asserted that despite what it described as prolonged ethnic and religious persecution since May 3, 2023, the Kuki-Zo community has continued to uphold the Constitution of India and cooperate with both central and state security forces.
CoTU also alleged that the present political developments are being orchestrated by “radicalised Tangkhul leaders” from Ukhrul with the objective of provoking another Kuki-Naga conflict for political gains. It appealed to all stakeholders to take serious note of what it described as an emerging security and political challenge.
The committee further stated that with the expiry of the 48-hour ultimatum served on June 27 midnight over the alleged failure of authorities to restore unhindered transportation of food, medicines and other essential commodities along National Highway-2, neither CoTU nor any civil society organisation under Sadar Hills Kangpokpi should be held responsible for any consequences arising from efforts to ensure the movement of essential goods.
