Manipur Officials and Tribal Groups Denounce Khongban Killings

Imphal: Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and various community organizations are calling for immediate action after three Meitei civilians died in Kangpokpi district. The victims, identified as Arubam Ronil, Lairenlakpam Inaobi, and Kshetrimayum Sushil, were killed in Khongban village on October 19. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of the attack.

Kipgen demanded a swift investigation into the violence. She warned against retaliatory actions that could heighten regional instability. “Civilian lives must be protected at all costs,” she stated. The Deputy Chief Minister also urged community leaders to prioritize reconciliation efforts.

The Committee on Tribal Unity based in Sadar Hills echoed these sentiments, condemning the murders and pushing for enhanced security. They specifically warned the public against spreading rumors that might trigger further communal friction. The Kuki Inpi and Saikul Gamkai civil society groups joined the chorus of condemnation, stressing that the violence threatens ongoing peace initiatives supported by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh.

Separately, the Khamenlok Area Core Committee released a statement on October 19 expressing concern that the attack ruins prospects for rehabilitation in an area already hit by heavy destruction between June 2 and 4, 2023. The committee's chairman and secretary cautioned against propaganda. They explicitly warned that vested interests might attempt to falsely implicate them or the Kuki-Zo community in the crime.