Manipur CM faces protest as villagers demand justice for abductions

Imphal: Hundreds of Naga and Meitei villagers lined National Highway-2 at Makhan on August 8 to protest Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh. Protesters waved black flags as his convoy passed toward Kangpokpi. The Chief Minister traveled with cabinet colleagues and BJP legislators following an invitation from Kuki civil society organizations. The trip marked a rare attempt at dialogue between the government and Kuki groups.

Villagers blocked the Chief Minister from visiting a local relief camp. They demanded accountability for the deaths of six Naga civilians abducted three months ago. These victims were later found dead and dismembered at Leilon Vaiphei village. Timothy Wijunamai, president of the Liangmei Naga Council, slammed the government for the lack of progress. “It has been nearly three months since our six brothers were abducted and subsequently killed. We have placed our demand before the government to deliver justice, but there has been no response so far,” Wijunamai said.

The Joint Tribe Council warns of escalating protests. Wijunamai dismissed the relief camp visit as a tactic to divert attention from the murders. He insists officials must identify the killers instead of seeking photo opportunities. The situation remains tense across Manipur as local communities wait for tangible results from the state leadership.