Tamenglong
11 March 2026
The Joint Tribe Council (JTC) strongly condemn the unwarranted and partial action of the 19 Assam Rifles in dismantling the defensive bunker set up by the villagers and confiscating three single-barrel cartridge guns from the village volunteers on today’s visit to Waphong.
The press release issued by Information and Publicity Joint Tribes Council stated that “Waphong Inthan is an Inpui Naga village that has been living under constant threat from nearby Kuki aggressors. In recent times, Kukis who have been involved in poppy cultivation at Tamphoimon, very close to Waphong, have created a tense and insecure environment in the area. Despite the serious nature of such illegal activities, it has been observed that the 19 Assam Rifles even assisted in reconstructing the farm houses belonging to those involved in poppy plantation.
“Furthermore, on February 17 and 20, the Kukis deliberately set fire to the jungles of Waphong, and the flames almost reached the habitation area of the village. The villagers had to struggle throughout the night to control the fire and protect their homes. In addition, frequent blank gunshots fired by the Kukis have created fear and insecurity among the villagers.
“In view of these repeated threats, the villagers of Waphong Inthan set up a small volunteer team and constructed a bunker at the village gate purely for defensive purposes to safeguard the village and its inhabitants in case of any attack from the Kuki aggressors. This arrangement was never intended to wage war against anyone but only to protect the lives and properties of innocent villagers.
“However, instead of addressing the real threats faced by the village, the 19 Assam Rifles dismantled the defensive bunker and strictly warned the villagers not to keep volunteers, alleging that such arrangements indicate preparation for war. This action has deeply disappointed the villagers and Jont Tribes Council.
“It is also a matter of serious concern that the Assam Rifles have remained silent on several grave issues, including the encroachment of Inpui land by Kukis for poppy cultivation, the repeated acts of arson against Waphong’s forest areas, and the presence of large numbers of KNF (Kuki National Front) cadres in nearby villages such as Aulmul, K. Pollen, Kotlen (Vaitum), Kharam Vaiphei, and Lilon Vaiphei. Notably, on 12 January 2026, around 30 KNF cadres from Kharam Vaiphei reportedly came to Ireng Naga village with the intention of burning down houses.
‘The continued silence of the Assam Rifles on these serious threats, while taking strict action against simple village volunteers armed only with single-barrel guns for self-defense, raises serious questions about fairness and neutrality.”
The Joint Tribes Council, therefore strongly urge the Assam Rifles to remain neutral and act impartially in maintaining peace and security in the region. Security forces must address the root causes of tension and ensure justice and protection for all communities without bias.
“Any action that appears partial or unjust will only aggravate the situation rather than help in maintaining peace. Issued in the interest of justice, peace, and the safety of the villagers” added the release by Information and Publicity of the Joint Tribes Council.
