Senapati residents stage black flag demonstration as Manipur CM arrives, demand probe into Naga killings

Residents of Manipur's Senapati district on Wednesday, July 8 staged a black flag protest during Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh's visit, demanding justice for six Naga civilians who were allegedly abducted and killed earlier this year.

The demonstration coincided with Khemchand's second road visit to Senapati since assuming office as chief minister. The visit was aimed at reviewing ongoing developmental projects in the district, interacting with members of the public and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and assessing the implementation of various government schemes and initiatives.

As the chief minister's convoy entered the district, residents gathered along the roadside holding black flags and placards to register their protest. The demonstrators demanded justice for six Naga civilians who, they alleged, were abducted by Kuki groups from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district on May 13, 2026. According to the protesters, the victims' bodies were recovered on June 10 in a mutilated and dismembered condition.

The protesters urged the state government to conduct a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation into the killings and ensure that all those responsible are identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

They also called on the authorities to uphold the rule of law, ensure accountability for everyone involved, and deliver justice to the victims and their families.