The Global Naga Forum expresses its strongest and unequivocal condemnation of the coordinated acts of violence that took place on 13 May 2026 across different parts of Naga areas in Manipur.
The statement reads “the brutal ambush at Kangpokpi targeting two Bolero vehicles carrying church leaders from the Thadou community, in which three church leaders namely Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigolun Lhouvum, and Pastor Paogoulan Sitlhou were mercilessly killed and four others injured, is a barbaric act that has shocked the conscience of the people. The deliberate targeting of unarmed religious leaders exposes the complete breakdown of restraint among armed groups.
“On the same day, the killing of Mr. Wilson Thanga a Chiru Naga Tribe in Noney district further reflects the deepening cycle of violence that is fast spiralling beyond control. These are not isolated incidents but part of an alarming pattern that threatens to engulf the entire region.
“Equally grave is the reported abduction of around 20 Nagas by Kuki militants, along with the kidnapping of two Naga church leaders from different locations. The scale and nature of these abductions amount to a direct assault on civilian safety and dignity. Such actions are nothing short of terror tactics aimed at instilling fear and provoking wider confrontation.
“The Global Naga Forum condemns in the strongest possible terms all forms of violence, killings, and abductions, irrespective of who the victims are. There can be no justification for taking innocent lives or holding civilians hostage.
“The GNF issues an immediate and uncompromising demand to all those involved to release all abducted persons, including the church leaders, unharmed and without any precondition. Any failure to do so will be viewed as a deliberate attempt to escalate the situation further.
“The Forum also calls upon the State Government of Manipur and the Government of India to act without delay. The perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be identified, tracked, and arrested at the earliest. Mere statements will not suffice. Visible and decisive action is required to restore public confidence and uphold the rule of law.
“If such acts continue unchecked, the consequences will be severe and far reaching. The responsibility to prevent further deterioration lies squarely with both the authorities and those engaging in violence.
“The Global Naga Forum reiterates that peace cannot be built on fear, violence, and lawlessness. Immediate corrective steps must be taken before the situation crosses a point of no return” added the statement issued by the Media Cell, Global Naga Forum
