Manipur: Naga legislator Awangbou Newmai condemns IT road ambush, urges Kuki leaders to promote humanity

Naga legislator and NPF State President Awangbou Newmai has strongly condemned the killing of four Liangmai Naga civilians in an alleged ambush by suspected Kuki militants along the IT Road in Kangpokpi district on August 27.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a memorial service held at Senapati headquarters to honour the victims, Newmai described the incident as deeply unfortunate and said such violence should not recur.

Newmai said efforts would be made from the government’s side to ensure justice for the victims. He added that the matter had already been taken up with Deputy Chief Minister Dikho, concerned MLAs and the authorities.

Asked whether Naga students could safely travel along the IT Road, Newmai said the latest ambush raised serious concerns over the safety of Naga people using the route.

He alleged that the incident, along with the reported killing of six other persons whose bodies he claimed had been mutilated and were yet to be buried, reflected a disturbing pattern of violence. Newmai said the incidents should not be viewed in isolation.

Referring to the alleged involvement of the KNF-P group, Newmai appealed to Kuki leaders, particularly Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, to educate their community on the importance of respecting human life.

He also appealed to Christian leaders among the Kuki community to uphold Christian values and work towards preventing further violence.

Newmai maintained that the Naga community respects other communities and called for unity and restraint in the face of continuing violence.