Imphal: Naga People’s Front state president Awangbou Newmai has demanded the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations agreement with the Kuki National Front-P. This follows the August 27 killing of four Naga civilians in an ambush along the Imphal-Tamenglong Road in Kangpokpi district. The victims were traveling between Makui Ashang and Makui Thanamba villages when the attack occurred. Newmai accused the KNF-P of the murders. The group remains a signatory to a 2008 ceasefire deal involving the central government, the state, and 25 insurgent factions.
Newmai challenged Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen to intervene. He told reporters at a Senapati memorial service, "I would like to appeal to the Kuki leaders and especially deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen. There are Christian leaders among the Kukis also. They should teach their people." He urged those leaders to promote humanity and Christian values. The road is no longer safe.
Community leaders held a mass burial at Chawangkining village for Wisobou Charenamai, Tadsongbou Ringkangmai, Mariakdibou Wijunamai, and Anil Wijunamai. Naga Village Guard personnel performed a final gun salute. MK Winning, representing the Makuilongdi-Zeliangrongpui region, declared the four men martyrs. Bereaved family members questioned why security forces failed to protect them, noting a stark difference in response times when Kuki victims are involved. They also cited the alleged use of tear gas against Naga protesters.
Newmai stated he discussed the security crisis with the chief minister and Deputy Chief Minister Dikho. He warned that this violence reflects a broader, disturbing pattern. Six other victims reportedly remain unburied after being mutilated. The Naga community continues to demand a full investigation into these killings.
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