Naga bodies have called for immediate arrests, stronger security along NH-202, and an impartial inquiry into the killing of two Tangkhul Naga civilians.
BY PC Bureau
April 18, 2026 — Strong reactions poured in from Naga organisations following the deadly ambush on National Highway-202 near T.M. Kasom (Rotei) village in Ukhrul district, where two unarmed Tangkhul Naga civilians were killed on Saturday afternoon, triggering sharp accusations against Kuki militants and fresh demands for accountability.
The deceased were identified as SW Chinaoshang, 46, a retired serviceman of the Indian Army’s Naga Regiment from Tashar village, and Yaruingam Vashum of Kharasom C.C. village. Both were returning home from Imphal when unidentified gunmen opened fire on their convoy around 2:30–2:35 p.m. At least two others were injured, and several vehicles were damaged in the attack.
Naga Youth Body Points Finger at SoO Kuki Militants
In a strongly worded two-page statement, the Voice of the Naga Youth (Khanuithot-Khon) directly blamed Kuki militants operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Government of India.
Describing the attack as a “calculated murder” carried out using sniper fire, the organisation said the ambush was a deliberate attempt to provoke, intimidate, and undermine peace efforts in the hills. It further alleged the killings fit a broader pattern of aggression, including extortion, occupation of community forests, and continued militant activity despite the ceasefire framework.
The group also demanded the immediate resignation of Nemcha Kipgen, accusing the Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds the Tribal Affairs and Hills portfolio, of failing to enforce the SoO agreement and allowing militants to operate with what it called “absolute impunity.”
In a particularly strong warning, the organisation said continued inaction could force affected communities to consider exercising their right to private defence under Sections 96–106 of the Indian Penal Code.
NPU Calls for Arrests, Security Overhaul
In a separate statement, the Naga Peoples’ Union, Imphal condemned the ambush in the “strongest and most unequivocal terms,” describing it as a “brutal ambush carried out by Kuki-Thadou terrorists” on innocent Naga civilians.
The NPU called for immediate arrests and urged the Manipur government to secure the highway by deploying state forces instead of central forces, which it accused of repeatedly failing to prevent such attacks. It also appealed to Nagas and other indigenous communities to remain united.
Both organisations noted that the attack occurred within hours of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s road visit to Ukhrul, raising suspicions that the ambush may have been intended to send a political message or derail ongoing peace initiatives.
Tensions Rise Along NH-202
The incident has heightened tensions in Ukhrul district, where reports of firing, extortion, and clashes along NH-202 have already strained the security environment.
Naga bodies have urged both the Government of India and the Manipur government to conduct a prompt and impartial inquiry, trace the weapons used — which some allege may be linked to SoO cadres — and ensure accountability.
Police have so far described the attackers only as “unidentified armed militants,” while security forces have launched combing operations in the area. No official response had been issued by Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen or the state government regarding the demands for her resignation.
The killing of two civilians, including a retired Army serviceman, has once again exposed the fragility of security in Manipur’s hill districts, where ordinary travellers continue to bear the cost of deep-rooted mistrust, insurgent rivalries, and contested ceasefire arrangements.
