By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) has called for a court-monitored investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the killing of three prominent Kuki church leaders in Manipur, while disputing recent claims made by the United Naga Council (UNC) regarding the incident.
In a statement responding to the UNC’s May 29 remarks, KOHUR alleged that the May 13 ambush that killed Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulun Sitlhou was part of a larger, coordinated conspiracy rather than an isolated act of violence.
The organization claimed the church leaders were targeted because of their efforts to promote unity within the Kuki community and support reconciliation initiatives. It also cited the growing influence of the United Baptist Council (UBC) as a possible factor requiring investigation.
Rejecting the UNC’s assertion that Naga armed groups had no motive to attack the pastors, KOHUR said only an independent probe could establish the facts. The organisation alleged that the ambush coincided with the interception and abduction of Kuki civilians in the Ireng area within a span of 15 to 20 minutes, suggesting possible coordination.
KOHUR further referred to past attacks in Kuki-inhabited areas, including K. Songlung and Kharam Vaiphei villages, and called for these incidents to be examined as part of a wider investigation.
The rights body also questioned the circumstances surrounding a Bolero Camper vehicle that reportedly passed through the ambush site shortly before the attack and raised concerns over alleged inconsistencies in statements issued by groups identifying themselves as ZUF-K.
Additionally, KOHUR demanded the immediate and unconditional release of 14 Kuki men reportedly being held in Senapati district and reiterated its opposition to hostage-taking.
Describing the killings, injuries to five others, alleged abductions and attacks on Kuki villages as serious human rights concerns, KOHUR renewed its demand for a court-monitored NIA investigation into all related incidents and said it would continue documenting developments for submission to constitutional and human rights authorities.