Violence Erupts In Manipur’s Noney, Three Kuki-Zo Community Members Killed In Gunfight

Manipur: The cycle of violence in Manipur is not showing any signs of stopping. A case of murder of three Kuki-Jo village volunteers has come to light in Noni district of the state. Kuki tribal organisation Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) made this allegation on Saturday. The organisation claims that all three were murdered by armed cadres. However, according to the police, three people have lost their lives in the fierce exchange of fire between two armed groups. Police are investigating the matter and additional information related to the incident is being collected.

After this incident, the Kuki organisation has accused the state government of negligence in security arrangements. On the other hand, Meitei organisations also protested in the capital Imphal. The protesters demanded cancellation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with militant groups and ensuring the safety of the indigenous people.

What is the allegation of Kuki Organisation?

Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) in its statement alleged that armed cadres of the Kamsan faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF-K) killed the three volunteers.

The organisation's information and publicity secretary Janghaolun Haokip said that the administration had earlier been informed about the threat to sensitive villages, but despite this, adequate security arrangements were not made. KIM claims that due to lack of security villagers have had to volunteer to protect their homes and community.

The organisation also alleged that the bodies of the deceased were treated disrespectfully after the murder. KIM has demanded the government to identify those responsible for the incident and take strict action against them and increase security in sensitive villages. 

Why did thousands of people take out a rally in Imphal?

Amid the incident in Noni district, large scale protests took place in Manipur's capital Imphal on Saturday. Several Naga organisations also participated in the rally organised under the leadership of Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI).

The main demands of the protesters were to cancel the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement signed with militant groups and ensure the safety of the indigenous people. Apart from this, the demand for safe return of displaced families to their homes was also raised.

Where did the police stop the protesters?

Thousands of protesters started their march from Tidim Maidan in Imphal West district towards Thau Maidan. In view of the rally, the police set up barricades around Lok Bhawan, the Chief Minister's office and the state office of BJP.

Security forces stopped the protesters from advancing towards these important government establishments. Special security arrangements were made in the entire area, so that no untoward incident happens. 

Continuous violent incidents in Manipur and protests by different communities have raised concerns about security and restoration of peace in the state. At present, the investigation into the firing in Noni is going on and the police have not made public the identity of the attackers.