Imphal: The Joint Tribes Council (JTC), Manipur, representing Naga communities including Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Inpui tribes, has urged the central and state governments to take immediate, stern action against Kuki militants.
In a memorandum submitted to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs through the Governor of Manipur, the JTC said that KNF leader Tiger Kipgen (also known as Thangboi/Haogenthang Kipgen) issued life-threatening warnings on January 12, 2026, stating that Naga residents of Ireng (Puilong) village in Kangpokpi could be fired upon and their villages burned.
The JTC warned that no Suspension of Operation (SoO) or illegal camps of Kuki militants would be allowed in the Naga foothills. Unauthorized roads, constructions, or poppy plantations on Naga ancestral land would also not be tolerated.
The situation escalated around 2 pm when about 30 armed Kuki militants were seen moving towards Ireng Naga village to intimidate civilians. KNF is a signatory to the controversial SoO pact with the governments.
An FIR was filed against Tiger Kipgen and KNF cadres on January 14, 2026. The Liangmai Naga Council also petitioned several authorities, including the Union Home Minister, Governor of Manipur, DGP, NIA, IGAR (South), Security Advisor, and Kangpokpi district officials. Despite the FIR, no concrete action has been taken, the JTC alleged.
The council urged both the central and state governments to ensure timely action against the KNF for the safety of civilians.
Stating that the Naga people remain firmly committed to peace, the rule of law, and the protection of indigenous ancestral lands and lives, the JTC warned that continued silence and lack of timely action by the authorities may compel unavoidable developments, “for which the Council cannot and should not be held responsible.”