Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: The Kuki Inpi South-West Sadar Hills (KISWSH) has accused Zeliangrong-Inpui groups and local underground factions of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation and economic blockades against Kuki communities. While the organization claims it has actively sought peace and communal harmony through dialogue in areas like Tupul and Khonglong since 2024, it asserts that these efforts have been met with persistent hostility.
The group detailed a series of incidents occurring between September 2025 and March 2026. These allegations include arson attacks on farm huts, the vandalism of village infrastructure, and armed assaults. Specifically, the KISWSH implicated cadres linked to the ZUF-Kamson faction in attacks within the Maolhang and Songjang Waphong regions. Further reports suggest that armed groups from Waphong Inthan dismantled security shelters and damaged water supplies in K. Songlung village.
Financial intimidation is also a major concern for the KISWSH. The organization claims that individuals from Ireng established an unauthorized toll gate along the Kangpokpi-Churachandpur road, charging 500 rupees per vehicle to fund local underground outfits. Additionally, KISWSH reported that movement through Naga-administered areas has been restricted, effectively isolating several Kuki villages by blocking critical supply routes.
Despite these tensions, the KISWSH maintains that it has avoided retaliation to preserve order. Regarding the aftermath of a May 13 ambush, the body clarified that no communal conflict exists between the two communities and urged for the release of detained civilians. The organization also defended Leilon village chief Lalboi Vaiphei, dismissing accusations of his involvement in violence as fabrication. The KISWSH is now calling for urgent intervention from the Manipur government and security agencies to investigate the claims and restore stability.
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