Naga community bodies have blamed armed Kuki militants for the attack and demanded a thorough investigation, while also raising allegations of possible security force collusion that remain unverified.
BY PC Bureau
June 8, 2026: A Rongmei Naga villager who went missing following an armed attack in the Pongringlong area of Manipur’s Kangpokpi district was found dead on Monday, triggering strong condemnation from Naga organisations and further heightening tensions in the region.
The deceased, identified as Chunjanglung Panmei (57), a Village Guard from Pongringlong Part-I, was reportedly among a group of villagers who came under attack while collecting firewood early Monday morning. Local community organisations said his body was later recovered with apparent bullet injuries.
The Pongringlong Youth Club (PYC) confirmed the recovery of Panmei’s body and expressed shock over the killing.
Several Naga organisations have strongly condemned the incident, alleging that armed Kuki militants were responsible for the attack. In separate statements, the groups claimed that unarmed Rongmei Naga villagers were targeted during the assault.
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The Working Committee of the Joint Tribes Council Manipur (JTCM), representing the Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Inpui communities, issued a statement condemning what it described as an attack on Rongmei Naga civilians in the area between Pongringlong and Pondajiang (Charoi Pandongba). According to the council, several rounds of gunfire were allegedly fired indiscriminately, creating panic and placing villagers in grave danger. The organisation stated that Panmei went missing during the attack and was later found dead.
The JTCM further raised concerns over what it described as reports and visual evidence suggesting possible assistance or collusion by security personnel during the incident. The allegations have not been independently verified. The council called for a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the facts and determine responsibility.
The council also recalled earlier incidents in the region, including a reported attack near Tupul in Noney district on May 22 and another confrontation between Leivon and Pongringlong villages on June 5. According to the JTCM, both incidents involved firing on civilians and have contributed to growing insecurity among residents of the area.
The Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) described the killing as a calculated attack on village guards engaged in routine activities. Echoing calls for accountability, the council urged the authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Panmei’s death and take action against those responsible.
Both organisations appealed to the government to ensure the safety of villagers living in vulnerable areas and address the recurring security concerns that have fuelled tensions in the region. The JTCM stated that the Naga community has exercised restraint despite repeated incidents but warned that continued attacks on villages and civilians could further aggravate the situation and undermine efforts to maintain peace.
The killing comes amid rising tensions in parts of Kangpokpi and neighbouring districts, where disputes involving Naga and Kuki communities have intensified in recent weeks. A series of violent incidents, allegations of militant activity, and competing territorial claims have contributed to an increasingly volatile security environment.
As of Monday evening, there was no official statement from the Manipur government, police, or security forces regarding the allegations made by Naga organisations or the circumstances surrounding Panmei’s death.
Community leaders have appealed for calm while demanding justice for the victim and a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Further details are awaited.
