Kamjong district in Manipur became the epicenter of a tense protest by Tangkhul Naga villagers against the Assam Rifles on Saturday. The dispute stems from accusations that paramilitary forces were unlawfully harassing locals who collect timber for their homes. With MLA Leishiyo Keishing backing the villagers’ claims, this incident shines a light on the ongoing tensions over local timber collection practices and jurisdictional issues between military and forest authorities.
BY PC Bureau
Videos shared on social media showed villagers, including women, marching toward the Assam Rifles post, which was later dismantled by the crowd. In one video, MLA Leishiyo Keishing, who represents the Ukhrul constituency in the Manipur Legislative Assembly, is seen addressing an Assam Rifles officer, saying, “It is not your duty. It is the duty of the forest department.” This remark followed the officer’s statement that the timber should not be used for commercial purposes.
The situation escalated when Assam Rifles personnel stopped vehicles carrying timber, leading to a large protest by villagers. A local leader explained that the villagers regularly collect timber from areas near the Myanmar border to use for personal purposes, primarily for building homes. However, they are often harassed by Assam Rifles personnel, which led to the protest.
The villagers argue that the timber collection is for personal use, not commercial purposes, and accuse the Assam Rifles of overstepping their authority, as the MLA pointed out that this issue falls under the jurisdiction of the forest department.
The Tangkhul Naga Tribe
The Tangkhul Naga tribe is one of the major Naga tribes native to the northeastern region of India, primarily in Manipur and parts of Nagaland. The tribe also has a presence in parts of Myanmar (Burma). They are indigenous to the region and have a rich cultural heritage and history, with the Tangkhul Naga language, part of the Tibeto-Burman family, being spoken across their villages. The language has several dialects but remains largely mutually intelligible.
The tribe is known for its vibrant culture, which includes colorful festivals such as Luira Phanit, a harvest festival marked by singing, dancing, and community gatherings. Traditionally animist, the Tangkhul Naga people converted to Christianity during the 19th and 20th centuries, and today, the majority follow Christianity.
Agriculture, particularly rice farming and jhum (shifting) cultivation, forms the backbone of their economy. The Tangkhul Naga people also engage in hunting, fishing, and weaving. Known for their arts and crafts, including weaving, pottery, and wood carving, the tribe lives in bamboo and thatch dwellings.
The Tangkhul Naga are politically active and have historically fought for greater autonomy, and they maintain a distinct political and cultural identity. The tribe is made up of various clans, each with unique customs and practices, but all share a deep connection through their language and heritage.
