Kuki Inpi Demands Action Against Vigilante Groups After Kangpokpi Attack, Urges Manipur DGP to Enforce Rule of Law
Amid continuing security concerns and ethnic tensions in Manipur, the Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills (KI-SWSH) has called upon the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) to move beyond assurances and take concrete legal action against individuals and groups allegedly involved in acts of vigilantism and violence.
The appeal follows a violent incident reported in Kangpokpi district on June 15, which the organization claims resulted in serious injuries to three civilians and renewed fears among residents of Kuki-inhabited areas. The latest development has once again brought attention to the fragile security situation in parts of Manipur, where community organizations continue to express concerns over civilian safety, accountability, and access to basic services.
Kuki Organization Alleges Armed Attack on Village
In a strongly worded statement, KI-SWSH alleged that armed cadres belonging to NSCN-IM and ZUF-Kamson were responsible for an attack on L. Munlui village, a settlement located in Kangpokpi district.
According to the organization, the assailants allegedly used sophisticated weapons and explosive devices during the assault, targeting what it described as a civilian-populated area. KI-SWSH claimed that three residents sustained critical injuries during the incident and had to be evacuated for urgent medical treatment.
The organization characterized the attack as part of a broader pattern of violence that has continued to affect Kuki-dominated regions amid the prolonged ethnic unrest and security challenges that have gripped Manipur over the past several years.
Community leaders expressed concern that repeated incidents of violence are creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among residents living in vulnerable and conflict-prone locations. They argued that such attacks not only endanger lives but also deepen mistrust and complicate ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
Demand for Immediate Legal Action
Referring to recent public statements by law enforcement authorities regarding the importance of maintaining law and order, KI-SWSH urged the Manipur Police leadership to demonstrate its commitment through decisive action.
The organization stressed that every individual or group involved in unlawful activities should be held accountable under the law, irrespective of affiliations or background. It argued that allowing armed actors to operate outside legal frameworks weakens public confidence in governance institutions and undermines the principles of justice.
According to KI-SWSH, prompt prosecution of those responsible for attacks on civilians would send a strong message that violence and vigilantism will not be tolerated. The organization maintained that strict enforcement of legal provisions is essential for ensuring public safety and preventing future incidents.
Community representatives also emphasized that the credibility of state institutions depends on their ability to act impartially and protect all citizens. They argued that visible legal action against perpetrators would help reassure affected communities that the government remains committed to upholding the rule of law.
Concerns Raised Over Treatment of Injured Victims
Apart from the attack itself, KI-SWSH has also raised questions regarding the treatment allegedly received by the injured civilians after they were transported to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal.
According to the organization, security personnel involved in the evacuation had identified the victims as civilians. However, KI-SWSH claimed that the injured individuals were subsequently labelled as terrorists, a development that reportedly created tension both inside and outside the hospital premises.
The organization described the alleged incident as deeply troubling and said such characterizations can cause significant emotional distress to victims and their families, particularly when they are already coping with serious injuries and trauma.
KI-SWSH argued that any misidentification or unverified labelling of civilians could have long-term consequences for public trust. The organization called for sensitivity, accuracy, and professionalism in handling cases involving victims of violence, especially in a conflict-affected environment where tensions remain high.
Separate Administration Demand Reiterated
The latest incident has also prompted the organization to renew its longstanding demand for a separate administrative arrangement for Kuki-populated regions.
For several years, various Kuki organizations have advocated alternative governance structures, arguing that existing administrative mechanisms have failed to adequately address their security concerns and developmental needs.
KI-SWSH stated that recurring incidents of violence continue to reinforce the perception among many Kuki residents that stronger administrative safeguards are necessary. According to the organization, the attack on L. Munlui village serves as another reminder of the challenges faced by communities living in conflict-affected areas.
The group contended that a separate administrative framework could provide greater responsiveness to local concerns, improve governance delivery, and enhance security management in areas predominantly inhabited by Kuki communities.
While the issue remains politically sensitive and continues to generate debate among different stakeholders, the organization maintained that discussions regarding governance and administrative arrangements cannot be separated from concerns about safety and long-term peace.
Call for Better Healthcare and Education Facilities
Beyond security-related demands, KI-SWSH highlighted what it described as the persistent developmental challenges facing residents of remote Kuki regions.
The organization pointed out that communities living in violence-affected areas often struggle to access quality healthcare facilities, educational institutions, transportation networks, and other essential public services.
According to KI-SWSH, ongoing instability has compounded these challenges, leaving many residents at a disadvantage compared to populations in more developed and peaceful regions.
The organization urged the government to accelerate investments in healthcare infrastructure, educational facilities, and welfare programmes aimed at improving living conditions in conflict-affected districts.
Community leaders argued that development and peace are closely linked. They said strengthening public services can help build resilience, improve opportunities for young people, and contribute to long-term social stability.
Security Situation Continues to Remain Fragile
The appeal to the DGP comes at a time when Manipur continues to face periodic incidents of violence despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to stabilize the situation.
Over the past several months, civil society groups, community organizations, and local leaders from different communities have repeatedly raised concerns regarding displacement, security risks, and access to basic services in affected areas.
The latest allegations surrounding the Kangpokpi incident have once again underscored the challenges confronting authorities as they attempt to maintain law and order in a deeply polarized environment.
Observers note that restoring public confidence remains one of the most important tasks before the administration. Ensuring accountability for acts of violence, protecting civilians, and strengthening institutional credibility are widely viewed as critical components of any lasting peace process.
Demand for Stronger Protection Measures
In its concluding appeal, KI-SWSH urged both the state government and security agencies to adopt proactive measures to prevent future attacks and safeguard civilian populations.
The organization stressed that all communities, regardless of ethnicity or location, deserve equal protection under the law and access to secure living conditions.
It maintained that accountability for attacks on civilians, effective law enforcement, and sustained developmental interventions are essential for restoring normalcy and creating conditions for durable peace in Manipur.
As tensions continue to simmer in parts of the state, the demands put forward by KI-SWSH reflect broader concerns surrounding security, governance, justice, and development. Whether these appeals translate into policy action remains to be seen, but the latest incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for confidence-building measures and sustained efforts toward peace and reconciliation in Manipur.
