After the Ukhrul ambush, the Global Naga Forum has called for strict enforcement of the Suspension of Operations pact amid concerns over militant activity.
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DIMAPUR — Following the killing of two Tangkhul Naga civilians at Ukhrul in Manipur on April 18, the Global Naga Forum (GNF) has alleged misuse of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact by Kuki militant groups, raised concerns over their “free movement” near Naga villages, and called for strict enforcement—or even review—of the agreement.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, the forum condemned the ambush along NH-202 near TM Kasom as a “heinous” and “premeditated” act and described the attack on unarmed civilians as a grave crime aimed at instilling fear and destabilising peace in Naga areas.
Citing ground reports and eyewitness accounts, the GNF claimed that ‘Kuki SoO militant cadres’ continue to operate in close proximity to Naga villages such as Sinakeithei, Thoyee, Sharkaphung and TM Kasom.
It further alleged that nearby Kuki villages—including Mongkot-Chepu, Shangkhai, Zalenbung, Songphel and Mollen—are being used as operational bases by armed groups possessing sophisticated weapons despite the presence of central security forces.
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The GNF also expressed concern over the alleged misuse of the monthly stipend of INR 6,000 provided to SoO cadres, claiming that funds may be diverted for procuring arms and ammunition.
It added that reports of a proposal to release over INR 30 crore towards stipend expenditure have heightened apprehensions.
Urging both the Centre and the Manipur government to act decisively, the forum demanded strict enforcement of SoO ground rules and warned that any violations must be dealt with firmly.
It stated that if militant groups are found exploiting the arrangement to target civilians, abrogation of the SoO agreement with the groups concerned, particularly the Kuki National Organisation (KNO), should be considered.
The organisation extended condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the people of Ukhrul district.
Amid rising tensions, the GNF cautioned against portraying the incident as an isolated or localised clash, asserting that it reflects a broader conflict of interest between Naga and Kuki communities.
It also rejected what it termed attempts to politically isolate the Tangkhul Nagas, stating that “an attack on the Tangkhul Nagas is an attack on the Naga people.”
While affirming the right of communities to protect their land and lives, the forum appealed for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all sides to return to dialogue.
It called on Kuki civil society organisations to rein in “extremist elements” and engage in constructive talks.
The GNF further urged the state and central governments to move beyond a security-centric approach and facilitate impartial mediation to address the root causes of the conflict.