Imphal: The Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills (KI-SWSH) has urged the Director General of Police (DGP), Manipur, to translate assurances regarding the rule of law into concrete action by initiating legal proceedings against individuals and groups allegedly taking the law into their own hands.
The demand comes in the wake of an attack on L. Munlui village in Kangpokpi district on June 15, which the organisation claims left three civilians critically injured and further heightened security concerns in Kuki-dominated areas.
KI-SWSH Alleges Armed Assault on L. Munlui Village
In a statement, the Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills alleged that cadres belonging to NSCN-IM and ZUF-Kamsoncarried out the attack on L. Munlui village using sophisticated firearms and explosive devices.
According to the organisation, the assault targeted a civilian settlement and resulted in serious injuries to three residents. KI-SWSH described the incident as part of a continuing pattern of violence affecting Kuki-inhabited areas amid the prolonged ethnic and security tensions in Manipur.
The organisation said the incident has intensified concerns regarding the safety and security of civilians living in vulnerable regions of the state.
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Demand for Strict Enforcement of Rule of Law
Referring to recent statements by police authorities regarding the maintenance of law and order, KI-SWSH called upon the Manipur Police leadership to ensure that all individuals involved in unlawful activities are dealt with strictly under the law.
The organisation emphasised that no group or individual should be allowed to bypass legal procedures or engage in acts of violence with impunity.
According to KI-SWSH, prosecuting those responsible for such incidents would demonstrate the state’s commitment to upholding justice and protecting civilians regardless of community affiliations.
Concerns Over Treatment of Injured Civilians
The organisation also raised concerns regarding the treatment of the injured victims after they were evacuated to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, for medical care.
KI-SWSH alleged that despite being identified as civilians by security personnel involved in the evacuation process, the injured individuals were reportedly labelled as terrorists, leading to tension within and around the hospital premises.
The organisation argued that such treatment not only causes distress to the victims and their families but also undermines public confidence in institutions responsible for maintaining law and order.
Renewed Call for Separate Administration
The latest incident has also prompted KI-SWSH to reiterate its longstanding demand for a separate administrative arrangement for the Kuki community.
The organisation stated that repeated incidents of violence and insecurity have reinforced concerns among Kuki residents regarding governance, protection, and access to essential public services.
According to the group, the attack on L. Munlui village highlights the need for a political and administrative framework that can better address the aspirations and security concerns of Kuki-populated areas.
Demand for Better Healthcare and Educational Infrastructure
Apart from security concerns, KI-SWSH also called for improved healthcare and educational facilities in conflict-affected Kuki regions.
The organisation noted that communities living in remote and violence-prone areas continue to face challenges in accessing quality healthcare, educational opportunities, and other essential public services.
It urged authorities to prioritise infrastructure development and welfare initiatives in these areas to ensure that residents are not further disadvantaged by the ongoing conflict situation.
Continuing Security Challenges in Manipur
The appeal to the DGP comes against the backdrop of continuing ethnic tensions and sporadic incidents of violence in parts of Manipur. Various civil society organisations and community groups have repeatedly raised concerns over security, displacement, and access to basic services in affected districts.
KI-SWSH maintained that ensuring accountability for attacks on civilians and strengthening the rule of law remain critical to restoring confidence and promoting long-term peace in the region.
The organisation has called on the state government and security agencies to take decisive steps to prevent further violence and guarantee the safety of all communities residing in conflict-prone areas.
