Identity records counter ‘illegal immigrant’ claims in Manipur's slain Kuki men case

Amid continuing tensions in Manipur’s hill districts, identity records have surfaced clarifying the citizenship status of two Kuki men who were recently found dead in Kamjong district, countering claims circulating on social media that they were “illegal immigrants.”

The two deceased, identified as Thengkhogin Baite and Thangboimang Lunkim, were found dead on March 12 in Thawai Kuki village in Kamjong district under circumstances that prompted concern among locals. 

Initial narratives on some social media platforms alleged that the deceased were foreign nationals, but official identity documents have since established that both men were Indian citizens and registered voters in the state.

Community representatives who reviewed the records stated that the men’s Aadhaar cards and entries in the electoral rolls confirm their status as legitimate residents of Manipur.

According to the documents, Thengkhogin Baite, son of Sempao Baite, was a resident of Thawai Kuki village under the 43-Phungyar Assembly Constituency in Ukhrul district. His name appears in the electoral roll at Serial No. 482, House No. 27, with EPIC No. MMJ0339218 and Aadhaar number 5100 4602 4720.

The second victim, Thangboimang Lunkim, son of Kaipao Lunkim, was originally from Chingdai Khullen village under the 46-Saikul Assembly Constituency in Kangpokpi district. Following the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur on May 3, 2023, he had reportedly been displaced and was staying temporarily at Shangkai village. Electoral records list him at Serial No. 31, House No. 5, with EPIC No. CRP0355644 and Aadhaar number 5346 1890 6989.

The bodies of the two men were reportedly discovered blindfolded and tied, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Community groups and civil society organisations from the Kuki-Zo community have expressed concern over the circulation of unverified information regarding the victims’ identity. They have urged the public to rely on verified records and avoid narratives that may distort facts surrounding the case.

“Aadhaar and electoral records are issued following established verification procedures. The available documentation clearly establishes their identity and citizenship,” a community representative said, emphasising that misinformation could complicate efforts to ensure accountability and justice.

The incident has also prompted protests in parts of the region, where residents gathered to demand a transparent investigation. During one such gathering, the pregnant wife of one of the victims appealed to authorities to take decisive action against those responsible and ensure that the focus remains on justice for the deceased.

Civil society groups have called on law-enforcement agencies to conduct a prompt and impartial investigation to determine the circumstances of the killings and identify those responsible. At the same time, they have appealed for restraint in public discourse, noting that the spread of unverified claims could aggravate tensions in a region already affected by prolonged unrest.