Nagaland tribal leaders meet Manipur counterparts in Senapati, express solidarity and seek justice, unity amid worsening security concerns and unrest
DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Tribe Hoho Coordination Committee (NTHCC) on Tuesday expressed solidarity with Nagas in Manipur, warning that the deteriorating security situation, unresolved killings of six Naga hostages and continuing attacks on Naga villages threaten peace and demand a united response from Naga organisations.
The concerns were raised during a joint meeting between the NTHCC, the United Naga Council (UNC) and tribal hohos of Manipur in Senapati, according to a press release.
Addressing the gathering, UNC president Ng Lorho recounted the events following the May 13 ambush in which three Kuki church leaders were attacked between Kotlen and Kotzin. He alleged that only the vehicle carrying Rev. Sithlou was targeted, describing it as a deliberate attack.
Lorho said the incident triggered the abduction of 18 Naga civilians from Leilon Vaiphei village, prompting Naga youth volunteers in Senapati to detain Kuki civilians. While detainees from both sides were subsequently released on humanitarian grounds, six Naga men remained unaccounted for after Kuki Inpi Manipur stated they were not in its custody.
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He said the Nagas released all 14 remaining Kuki detainees on June 9 following appeals from church leaders, civil society organisations and political leaders. A day later, the bodies of the six missing Naga hostages were reportedly recovered.
Lorho said the UNC has placed four demands before the authorities, insisting that the bodies would not be claimed until justice is ensured. He added that while the Manipur governor and chief minister had appealed for the lifting of the ongoing economic blockade, the UNC would continue its agitation until its demands are addressed.
Representatives of various Naga organisations from Manipur alleged that security conditions remain fragile, citing repeated incidents of firing, attacks on villages, alleged militant activity and growing insecurity in Naga-inhabited areas bordering Kuki settlements.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting Nagaland delegation, NTHCC convenor Thejao Vihienuo said the visit was intended to express solidarity with the Nagas of Manipur and reaffirm the oneness of the Naga people.
Describing the situation as a "wake-up call", he said Nagaland Nagas stand with their counterparts in Manipur and would continue to extend support in safeguarding Naga rights and interests.
Vihienuo also claimed that historical records indicate attempts to mobilise Kukis against the Nagas during the 1950s, arguing that present developments should be viewed in that historical context. He said copies of archival documents had been shared with the UNC leadership.
The meeting concluded with UNC president Ng Lorho proposing the formation of a common Naga platform to collectively address issues affecting Naga communities.
Around 40 delegates from the NTHCC—including representatives of Angami Public Organisation, Pochury Hoho, Rengma Hoho, Lotha Hoho, Yimkhiung Tribal Council, Sumi Hoho, Ao Senden, Chakhesang Public Organisation and Nagaland Zeliang People's Organisation—attended the meeting.