Imphal: The two apex bodies representing the Nagas and Kukis in Manipur on Tuesday appealed to the general public and all concerned—particularly members of the two tribal communities—to maintain peace and refrain from any form of violence.
The appeal came amid mounting tension following the burning of Kuki farmhouses in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Monday.
The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex body of the Naga tribes in Manipur, and the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex traditional, social, and political body of the Kuki people, jointly condemned the arson at Kangchup Songlung (Part-II) village in Kangpokpi district.
The incident was allegedly carried out by the Zeliangrong United Front–Kamsom (ZUF-K), an underground group belonging to the Naga community.
The appeal and condemnation followed a joint meeting of the two apex bodies held on Tuesday at the Kangpokpi district headquarters.
The meeting, chaired by UNC president Ng. Lorho, unequivocally condemned the burning of households at K Songlung (Part-II) village by the ZUF-K in broad daylight, which resulted in the loss of property and caused panic among the victims.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Ng. Lorho appealed to the general public and all concerned to maintain peace and avoid any form of inter-community violence.
The two apex tribal bodies also cautioned fellow tribals against writing or posting unwarranted rumours, spreading false propaganda, or creating animosity and tension among communities.