Manipur: Naga youths stage sit-in in Senapati, demand time-bound justice for slain civilians

Naga youths in Manipur’s Senapati district staged a peaceful sit-in at Senapati Bazaar on September 12, demanding time-bound justice for Naga civilians allegedly killed in attacks in neighbouring Kangpokpi district.

Organised by the Naga Youths of Senapati (NYS), the protest saw participation from youths from different parts of the district. Protesters carried placards with messages including “Justice for Naga Victims”, “Prosecute the Guilty”, “No Justice, No Peace”, “Stop the Bloodshed”, “No Impunity” and “Arrest the Killers”.

Speaking at the gathering, Makui Pipuram village chairman Chiaklungbou alleged that armed Kuki groups had attacked the village and set residential houses on fire. He said several villagers were currently taking shelter at a relief centre in Senapati and appealed to the authorities to ensure adequate security to prevent further attacks.

Social activist RK Paul Chawang said the protest was aimed at highlighting alleged incidents of arson, ambushes and killings targeting Naga civilians during the ongoing conflict.

Chawang alleged that smaller Naga villages had come under attack during both daytime and nighttime, raising security concerns for villagers, farmers, women and children.

He also accused the state government and authorities of failing to adequately protect civilians and ensure accountability for those responsible for the alleged killings.

Chawang claimed that at least 18 Naga civilians had been killed in attacks during the conflict and alleged that some victims were subjected to mutilation after their deaths. These claims could not be independently verified.

Referring to the May 13 attack, in which six Naga civilians were allegedly killed, Chawang said the victims’ bodies were recovered on June 10 and alleged that their families were still awaiting justice and action against those responsible.

The protester also referred to the United Naga Council’s economic blockade from May 17, launched over a four-point charter of demands, and expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as the lack of tangible progress from the government.

Chawang warned that continued failure to address the concerns could fuel anger among Naga youths, while stressing that Saturday’s demonstration was peaceful and not affiliated with any political party.

The protesters later submitted a memorandum through the Deputy Commissioner, Senapati, addressed to the President of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the National Human Rights Commission, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Manipur Chief Minister and Governor.

Among their demands were time-bound justice in the killings of Naga civilians in Kangpokpi, abrogation of the Suspension of Operations agreement, designation of Kuki National Front (President) as a terrorist organisation, and removal of Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen from office.

The protesters said the demonstration was intended to draw attention to the security concerns of Naga communities and press for accountability and protection of civilians amid the continuing conflict in Manipur.