Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC), along with the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Women’s Union (NWU) and district apex organisations, convened an emergency joint meeting on Sunday at Tahamzam in response to recent violence in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur.
The meeting strongly condemned the killing of two Naga civilians in an incident reported near TM-Kasom village along National Highway-202 in Ukhrul district. The victims were identified as Chinaoshang Shokwungnao (45) of Tashar village and Yaruingam Vashum (42) of Kharasom village.
According to the organisations, the two were travelling on a public highway when they were waylaid and killed, an incident they described as a serious lapse in security that has raised concerns over the safety of civilians in the region.
Leaders present at the meeting observed a minute of silence and offered prayers, led by Thamdok Francis, president of the Chandel Naga People’s Organisation (CNPO), in memory of the victims.
The organisations also questioned the adequacy of security arrangements in Naga areas, noting that the incident occurred shortly after visits by the Chief Minister and the Home Minister to Ukhrul district. They called for accountability in ensuring public safety.
Following deliberations, the meeting adopted a series of resolutions. A three-day total shutdown will be observed across Naga-inhabited areas from midnight of April 20 to midnight of April 23, with essential and emergency services exempted.
A candlelight vigil will be held on April 23 at 6.30 p.m. in all Naga district headquarters as well as in Imphal to pay tribute to the victims.
The organisations also announced a temporary suspension of social and economic ties with Kuki communities during the mourning period, in accordance with customary practices.
The UNC appealed to citizens, civil society groups and institutions to cooperate with the resolutions and maintain peace and order during the period of mourning.