Imphal: Four Naga civilians were killed and two others injured in separate attacks in Makui and Tapon villages, prompting strong condemnation from the Working Committee of the Joint Tribes Council Manipur (JTCM).
Describing the incidents as a “barbaric massacre” involving sophisticated weapons, the tribal body called on the state and central governments to take immediate action. It also demanded the return of a victim’s missing head to enable the family to perform traditional funeral rites, warning that failure to act would make the authorities responsible for any further escalation of violence.
The JTCM identified the deceased as Machungamang Daimai, a village guard who was allegedly ambushed at Tapon village; Dibambou Ringkangmai, 48; and Ajinbou R. Ringkangmai, 52, both residents of Makui. The fourth victim was identified as Ramningpou Gangmei, 53, from Luangchum village in Tamenglong district.
According to the council, Dibambou Ringkangmai sustained severe injuries to the head, while Ajinbou R. Ringkangmai was beheaded. The council alleged that the attackers fled with the latter’s head, preventing the bereaved family from carrying out the customary funeral rituals.
The two injured survivors, who are undergoing treatment, were identified as Mathangambou Chawang and Nashon Pame.
The JTCM also called for a comprehensive review of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) framework, arguing that the existing arrangement had failed to prevent violence and had instead allowed armed groups to operate beyond designated areas.
The council demanded the verified surrender of illegal weapons and strict enforcement of restrictions requiring militant groups to remain within their designated camps. It maintained that stronger monitoring and accountability were necessary to prevent further attacks.
The tribal body also accused several individuals and Kuki armed groups of involvement in planning and carrying out the attacks. These allegations have not been independently verified.
The latest incidents have intensified concerns over continuing Naga-Kuki tensions in Manipur. According to the JTCM, the reported number of Naga casualties in the violence has reached at least 32 since February 2026.
The council said it would continue pursuing all available avenues to seek justice for the victims and their families, while pressing the authorities to take action to prevent further bloodshed.