The Naga Women’s Union (NWU) strongly condemned the reported attack on 19 October, 2026 around 9:30 am at Sunurok Uyok, Khongbal which claimed the lives of Arubam Ronil (35), Lairenlakpam Inaobi (51) and Kshetrimayum Sushil (32) succumbed to his Injuries at the hospital.
The press statement of Naga Women’s Union reads, “NWU observes with grave concern that recurring incidents of armed violence and intimidation continue to undermine the existence of the people of the different communities of Manipur. On the morning of 10 October 2026, Mr. Sundip Rai was killed along the Mahadev – Toloi Road. Such violence cannot be dismissed as an isolated incident and allowed to become an accepted reality. Protecting lives from armed militant aggressions is a fundamental responsibility of the Government, and failure to prevent repeated attacks demands urgent scrutiny and concrete corrective action.
“The continuing violence against the land and the people appears to be deliberate. When such violence goes unchallenged, it gradually becomes normalised, allowing aggression to escalate until Government begin to accept insecurity as part of everyday life. The cycle of routine violence created by non-occupants must be stopped through decisive and urgent Government intervention.
“Despite repeated reports of Kuki aggression and occupation, the State and Central Governments delayed recognition and inadequate response have exposed the different communities to catastrophic consequences. The continued failure to protect civilians raises serious questions about accountability and the Government’s responsibility to safeguard land rights and peoples. The need of urgency of is not seriously looked until today by the Government.
“The growing concern is that these actions may be part of a broader attempt to establish illegitimate control over land that do not belong to the occupants, supported by political elites who support armed groups whose influence poses a serious threat to indigenous survival and security.
“In this situation, collective resilience of the legislators, social unity, and a carefully considered response are essential. Resistance must be strategic, disciplined, and directed towards protecting lives, defending legitimate rights. It is time to recognise the role of the Government and must pay their concerns about safety and stability must be understood rather than dismissed. The thirst for political power among those who places personal political ambition above the welfare of the State, fails in the fundamental responsibility of public leadership. Fear of losing political status must not become defeatism, nor should compromising rhetoric undermine the legitimate right to defend the land and dignity. Those who cannot actively participate should not obstruct others from pursuing lawful and collective efforts to protect their land and people.
“Ultimately, the Government must recognise the gravity of the situation; investigate allegations of aggression and unlawful occupation. The people cannot be expected to endure endless aggression while waiting for a response that comes too late. The protection of their ancestral lands, lives and future demands immediate action and political accountability.
“The reported attacks, particularly in view of its proximity to the Mt. Sinai camp reportedly associated with Kuki militants under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement, raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of existing security measures.
“NWU therefore urges the Government of Manipur and the Government of India to take immediate and decisive measures to arrest the perpetrators ensure justice for the victims and prevent further attacks. Any allegations of violations involving armed groups under the SoO framework must be investigated and accountability must be enforced without favouritism” stated the press release issued by the Information and Publicity Cell, Naga Women’s Union.
