Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Several Naga civil society organisations, including the United Naga Council (UNC), Zeliangrong Union (ZU) and the Joint Tribes Council Manipur (JTCM), have strongly condemned the killing of a Naga village volunteer in Manipur‘s Kangpokpi district and demanded immediate justice through a time-bound and impartial investigation.
The organisations were reacting to the killing of Chunjanglung Panmei (58), an executive member of the Pongringlong Village Authority, who was allegedly ambushed and shot dead by armed militants on June 8 while repairing a damaged village water pipeline between Pongringlong and Pondaijang villages.
The Naga bodies alleged that the attackers were aided by central security forces during the incident, an accusation that has intensified anger among local communities.
Calling the killing a brutal and unacceptable act, the organisations urged both the State and Central governments to swiftly identify and arrest those responsible. They demanded a transparent investigation to ensure accountability and justice for the victim and his family.
The groups also called for the immediate relocation of all Suspension of Operations (SoO) camps from the region, arguing that stronger measures are needed to restore public confidence and security.
Expressing concern over the deteriorating situation, the UNC warned that any delay in addressing the issue could adversely affect peace, stability and inter-community relations in the region.
Meanwhile, the Pongringlong Youth Club and the Coordination Committee of Longmai Area conveyed their condolences to the bereaved family and expressed solidarity with them during the difficult period.