Kangpokpi: The IHANG-BUNGPI Working Committee has strongly condemned what it described as a targeted firing incident on a Kuki civilian along the Leplen–Tingpibung road, calling it part of a continuing pattern of violence against unarmed individuals engaged in daily livelihood activities.
In a press release issued yesterday, the Committee identified the victim as Shri Thanglenmang Doungel, a resident of Sijang–Mongjang village. According to the statement, the victim, a farmer, had gone to collect vegetables and was resting in a shed when he was allegedly fired upon using automatic weapons. He sustained gunshot injuries to his chin and shoulder, with bullets grazing his body and causing significant blood loss.
The Committee noted that the victim was accompanied by his friend and his mother at the time of the incident. Both reportedly escaped unharmed. The firing was said to have originated from Sinakeithei Tangkhul village.
Describing the incident as “not isolated,” the IHANG-BUNGPI Working Committee alleged that such attacks reflect a deliberate pattern of targeting unarmed Kuki civilians engaged in routine livelihood activities. It further stated that the use of automatic weapons against civilians demonstrates a “complete disregard for human life and the rule of law.”
The Committee also expressed concern over the timing of the incident, pointing out that the attack occurred while the state’s Chief Minister was reportedly on a peace tour aimed at promoting calm and reconciliation. It termed the situation as contradictory, stating that despite assurances of peace at the highest levels, civilians continue to face armed attacks on the ground.
Calling the incident a serious lapse in the existing security framework, the Committee raised questions about the effectiveness of security forces and ongoing official engagements in ensuring civilian safety. It highlighted the continued vulnerability of civilians in the region despite the presence of security personnel.
The IHANG-BUNGPI Working Committee has urged authorities to take immediate and decisive action to protect civilians, secure the Leplen–Tingpibung corridor, and bring those responsible for the attack to justice without delay.
Emphasizing the importance of safety in daily life, the Committee stated that access to fields and basic livelihood activities must not be subjected to armed threats. It reiterated that the targeting of civilians under such circumstances is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue.
