Naga MLAs abstain from Manipur assembly session, demand justice in Leilon Vaiphei killing, action against Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen

Naga legislators in Manipur on Monday, September 7 abstained from the final sitting of the ongoing Assembly session, protesting the alleged abduction and killing of Leilon Vaiphei and demanding justice for the victim as well as action against Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen over alleged links between her husband and the Kuki National Front-P (KNF-P).

The decision was announced by Naga MLA Awangbow Newmai, who said the legislators had decided not to attend the day's proceedings in protest against what they described as the failure to ensure justice in the Leilon Vaiphei case.

Addressing the media, Newmai alleged that eyewitnesses had pointed to the involvement of a KNF-P leader in the incident and claimed that the individual was the husband of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. He said the allegations warranted a thorough investigation and accountability.

“Our decision not to attend is that we don’t want to sit with the Deputy Chief Minister who is linked with the KNF-P. The prime accused in the Leilon Vaiphei incident is her husband, as there is enough evidence,” Newmai said.

The Naga legislators also demanded that Kipgen be removed from the post of Deputy Chief Minister until the investigation into the alleged involvement of her husband is completed.

The development comes amid continuing political tensions over allegations concerning armed groups and attacks on civilians in Manipur. Nine Naga legislators, including Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, had earlier urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take immediate action against Kuki leaders over their alleged involvement in attacks and killings of Naga civilians.

The legislators had also sought action against Nemcha Kipgen, alleging collusion between her office and the KNF-P.

The Leilon Vaiphei incident has emerged as a major point of contention among Naga legislators, who have been demanding a probe into the circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction and killing and accountability for those responsible.

Monday's proceedings mark the final day of the eighth session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, which began on September 2. The Assembly is scheduled to hold three sittings on the concluding day.

The allegations made by the Naga legislators against Kipgen's husband and the KNF-P remain allegations and would require investigation and due process to establish the facts.