The Kuki CSO Working Committee Ukhrul in a press release has condemned the declaration of Thawai Village Authority, opposing the entry of security forces for operations in their area.
The Kuki CSO Working Committee Ukhrul has urge the security forces to continue their firm, impartial, and uncompromising efforts to disarm all hostile elements and dismantle illegal bunkers on all sides, particularly along the Mahadev-Mongneljang stretch, and to maintain strategic dominance in these areas to restore lasting peace and stability.
The statement issued by WCKCSOs-Ukhrul stated ‘we unequivocally and strongly condemn the declaration made by Thawai Tangkhul village authorities through its letter head, dated 3 April 2026, opposing the entry of security forces for operations in their area.
“While Thawai Tangkhul claims to have maintained peace since the onset of unrest among different communities, such assertions stand in stark contradiction to serious and longstanding allegations against them. Their involvement in the arson and killing of innocent Thawai Kuki villagers during the 1992-1993 Tangkhul-Kuki conflict, as well as their role in facilitating the brutal killing of three innocent Thawai Kuki villagers on 18 August 2023, cannot be ignored, erased, or denied.
“Further compounding these concerns are credible reports of Tangkhul armed militants-operating under the guise of so-called “Village Volunteers” of Thawai-having undergone training at a farmhouse in Mahadev. These elements have reportedly constructed a network of fortified bunkers stretching from the Thoubal River bank adjacent to the Zalenbung terrace paddy fields to the eastern periphery of Mongneljang including the stretches of Mahadev. These bunkers have become centers of repeated and indiscriminate firing, particularly from positions near the Zalenbung terrace fields, with automatic gunfire frequently directed toward Shangkai village.
“Such fortified positions are reportedly equipped with binoculars, sniper weapons, and other sophisticated arms and ammunition, posing a grave and persistent threat to civilian lives. The presence of these bunkers has severely disrupted normal life and has effectively curtailed the free movement and safety of residents in Shangkai, Gwaltabi, and Mongneljang villages in particular.
“In this context, the Thawai Tangkhul village authority must immediately cease the spread of unsubstantiated propaganda and inflammatory claims, including allegations regarding the presence of Kuki illegal immigrants, unless they are supported by verifiable and credible evidence.
“Given these circumstances, it is deeply hypocritical and untenable for Thawai Tangkhul village to oppose the lawful entry and operations of security forces by invoking the Manipur (Village Authorities in Hill Areas) Act, 1956, as though the village exists outside the ambit and authority of Indian law.
“The recent combing operations carried out by 04 Mahar Regiment, CAPFs and Police on 26th March 2026 in the areas of Shangkai, Thawai Tangkhul, Mahadev, and Zalenbung-resulting in the dismantling of several illegal bunkers-brought a much-needed sense of relief and security to the affected villagers.
“Moreover, repeated attempts by Tangkhul armed militants to infiltrate and launch further attacks have reportedly been thwarted due to the timely and decisive intervention of security forces, notably on 3rd April 2026 around 1:00 AM and again at approximately 8:30 PM.
“We strongly urge the security forces to continue their firm, impartial, and uncompromising efforts to disarm all hostile elements and dismantle illegal bunkers on all sides, particularly along the Mahadev-Mongneljang stretch, and to maintain strategic dominance in these areas to restore lasting peace and stability.
“No peace-loving community would oppose fair, impartial, and selfless operations carried out in the interest of public safety and harmony, unless such opposition is driven by concealed motives and hidden agendas.”
In another statement issued by the WCKCSOs-Ukhrul stated ‘we unequivocally and in the strongest possible terms condemn the brazen and cowardly act of indiscriminate automatic gunfire unleashed upon innocent paddy farmers in G. Shongmun on the morning of April 4, 2026, at approximately 9:30 AM. The reported firing of around 20 rounds at unarmed civilians engaged in their daily livelihood is not only an act of brutality but a direct assault on the fundamental right to life and security.
“That such a heinous attack could occur in the immediate presence and under the watch of deployed security forces raises deeply troubling questions about accountability, operational effectiveness, and the failure to safeguard vulnerable communities. This incident is not merely an isolated act of violence-it reflects a dangerous climate of impunity where armed militants operate with reckless disregard for civilian lives and the authority of the state.
“We categorically denounce the repeated targeting of not only farmers but also commuters along the Tingpibung-Leplen route, which has instilled fear and instability among the local population. These acts amount to sustained intimidation and terror against ordinary citizens.
“In light of this grave situation, we demand immediate, decisive, and transparent action from the authorities. This must include a time-bound operation to disarm all armed militant elements operating from Sinakeithei and surrounding areas, reinforcement of civilian protection measures, and a full-scale investigation to fix responsibility for both the perpetrators and any lapses in security response.
“Silence, delay, or inaction in the face of such violence is unacceptable. The government and security apparatus must act now-firmly and without compromise to restore law, uphold justice, and ensure that no armed group is allowed to operate above the law” stated the statement issued by WCKCSOs-Ukhrul
