Imphal: The Joint Tribes Council (JTC), representing the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme communities, has demanded an independent investigation into the killing of three Meitei civilians at Sunurok Uyok, Khongbal Tangkhul, on October 19, alleging the involvement of Kuki militants covered by the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
In a statement issued on October 19, the council said several other people were seriously injured in the incident, which reportedly occurred around 9:30 am. It called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, irrespective of their affiliation or SoO status.
The deceased were identified as Arubam Ronil, 30, son of Raja, from Nongshum village; Lairenlakpam Inaobi, 50, son of L. Tombi, also from Nongshum village; and Kshetrimayum Sushil, 25, son of Deben, from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai.
The JTC expressed condolences to the bereaved families and solidarity with the injured.
Questioning the enforcement of the SoO arrangement, the council asked how armed personnel covered by the agreement could allegedly move outside designated camps with sophisticated weapons and attack civilians. It said the agreement should not provide protection from accountability for acts of violence.
The council also questioned the effectiveness of security deployment in Manipur, citing the reported presence of around 40,000 state personnel and more than 60,000 additional central personnel. It asked the state and central governments to explain why civilian killings continued despite the deployment.
The JTC called for a prompt, independent and impartial investigation, strict enforcement of the SoO terms, inspections of designated camps, verification of cadres and an accounting of weapons. It also sought improved security in vulnerable areas and accountability for any security lapses.
Other demands include immediate medical care for the injured, compensation for affected families and survivors, and an urgent review of the SoO arrangement to address alleged violations and loopholes.
The council urged the governments of India and Manipur to take immediate and verifiable action against armed groups and ensure the safety of all communities.