On April 6, the NIA arrested Kamginthang Gangte, a resident of Moreh in Tengnoupal district, for his alleged role in the October 31, 2023 killing of Sub-Divisional Police Officer Chingtham Anandakumar Singh. The agency invoked stringent charges, including murder, criminal conspiracy, and provisions under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), describing the killing as a “terror act” linked to a broader conspiracy during the ethnic unrest.
Questions Over ‘Selective Action’
The arrest has triggered strong reactions among sections of the Kuki community, who allege disproportionate targeting of Kukis while leaders of Arambai Tengol remain largely untouched.
At the centre of the controversy is Korounganba Khuman, the self-styled commander-in-chief of the group. Community leaders point out that Khuman has been named in multiple NIA cases involving grave offences, yet has not been arrested despite FIRs filed nearly two years ago.
This is korounganba Khuman, C-in-C of militant group Arambai tenggol. The group has challenged all Central forces including the NIA against his arrest. pic.twitter.com/XquOUsI9kP
— Ritesh Singh (@Duorope) June 17, 2024
READ: NIA arrests Kuki man in murder of SDPO during ethnic violence
Detailed Charges Against Korounganba Khuman
According to NIA case documents, Khuman faces serious allegations across at least two major cases:
Case RC-03/2024/NIA/IMP (November 1, 2023 – Imphal East):
Khuman is accused of leading a large, armed mob of Arambai Tengol members—some allegedly dressed in police and military-style uniforms—to the Palace Compound. When confronted by police, the group allegedly:
- Opened fire on security personnel
- Overpowered law enforcement officers
- Advanced in a coordinated convoy across Imphal
Charges in this case include:
- Armed rioting (IPC Sections 147, 148, 149)
- Obstructing public servants (Section 186)
- Disobedience of lawful orders (Section 188)
- Attempt to murder (Section 307)
- Robbery and dacoity (Sections 379A, 395)
- Criminal conspiracy (Section 120B)
- Criminal intimidation and incitement (Sections 504, 505, 506)
- Terror-related offences under UAPA (Section 18)
- Violations of the Arms Act
- Offences under the Official Secrets Act
Case RC-04/2024/NIA/IMP (November 1, 2023 – 1st Manipur Rifles Complex):
In a second incident the same evening, Khuman is accused of leading another armed group that allegedly:
- Stormed the 1st Manipur Rifles Battalion
- Ransacked government offices
- Destroyed vehicles and infrastructure
- Looted large quantities of arms and ammunition
Charges include:
- Armed rioting and unlawful assembly
- Robbery and dacoity
- Criminal conspiracy
- Terrorist acts under UAPA (Sections 16, 18)
- Illegal possession and use of firearms under the Arms Act
- Violations of the Official Secrets Act
Kuki organisations have repeatedly alleged that Khuman’s role extends beyond the registered cases, accusing him of leading attacks on Kuki-Zo villages, burning homes, churches, and schools, and being involved in killings, sexual violence, and forced displacement. They also claim he has coordinated armed mobilisation and intimidation campaigns.
They further cite widely circulated visuals that allegedly show heavily armed cadres operating under his leadership, raising concerns about access to large-scale weaponry and the continued militarisation of the conflict.
Unanswered Cases Add to Anger
Community leaders have highlighted several unresolved cases, including:
- The beheading of a Kuki man, David Thiek
- Multiple alleged cases of rape and killing of Kuki civilians during the March 3, 2023 violence
These incidents, they argue, have seen little progress compared to cases involving Kuki accused.
Competing Narratives Persist
While Kuki groups allege bias, Meitei organisations and supporters of Arambai Tengol have rejected these claims, arguing that the conflict involves actions from multiple sides and that investigations must consider all perspectives.
The NIA has maintained that its actions are evidence-based and case-specific. It has not publicly commented on the status of proceedings against Khuman.
Fragile Trust in a Conflict Zone
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing instability in Manipur, where ethnic violence since May 2023 has killed over 260 people and displaced tens of thousands.
Analysts warn that the credibility of investigative agencies depends on visible impartiality. The arrest of Gangte marks progress in one case—but it has also intensified scrutiny over whether justice is being applied evenly.
As tensions persist, the demand for accountability across all sides continues to grow, with many warning that unequal enforcement could further erode trust in an already volatile region.
