Manipur CM meets families of two slain Kuki youths in Kangpokpi, assures NIA probe

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, on November 9, met the families of two youths whose bodies were recovered in neighbouring Senapati district, assuring them that those responsible for their killing would be arrested.

The case involving Paoginlal Hangshing and Tinginlun Chongloi, residents of Taphou Kuki village in Kangpokpi district, has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the Chief Minister told the bereaved families during his visit to the village on Monday.

Meeting the families at the Taphou Kuki Village Authority Office, Khemchand Singh expressed his condolences and assured them of the government's support. He said all those involved in the killing would be brought to justice, although the investigation could take time.

The Chief Minister also urged people to cooperate with the investigation, citing the Tronglaobi incident in Bishnupur district as an example. He said the NIA had taken four months to identify and arrest the accused in that case after gathering sufficient evidence.

During the meeting, the families appealed to the Chief Minister to initiate dialogue with civil society organisations (CSOs) and facilitate the performance of the two youths' last rites at the earliest.

Taphou Kuki village chief L Chongloi also briefed the Chief Minister on the difficulties faced by residents following the incident.

The two youths were reportedly missing from Taphou Kuki village since October 28. Their bodies were recovered on November 1 during a joint search operation by security forces in neighbouring Senapati district.

Khemchand Singh also interacted with CRPF personnel deployed in the village and acknowledged their role in maintaining security in the area.