Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Security forces and protesters clashed in the Namdilong area of Imphal West on August 20. The confrontation left at least 10 protesters and three security personnel injured. One Indian Reserve Battalion soldier sustained injuries during the struggle. State and central forces fired tear gas shells and mock bombs to break up the crowd.
The protest was organized by the Native People’s Committee, the Joint Tribe Council, and the United Naga Council. Participants gathered near Kanglatongbi Bazaar to demand justice for six Naga civilians abducted from Leilon Vaiphei on May 13 and later killed. Their bodies were recovered on June 10 and remain at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences mortuary. The demonstration also sought accountability for four other Naga deaths, including an August 14 ambush at Langka Naga village, and opposed census exercises until the National Register of Citizens is updated.
Among the wounded was 36-year-old Wikhonliu. Her husband, Phenrongwi, was one of the six civilians murdered. She was previously treated at the JNIMS Psychiatry Ward following his death and was discharged on July 16. Other injured individuals include Wilobou, 33, Chunwibou, and 44-year-old Masenwangbou from Makhan.
NPC convenor Ashang Kasar condemned the police tactics while speaking at JNIMS. "Security forces used force against protesters during a peaceful demonstration, leaving four people injured. The action of the security forces is very unfortunate," Kasar said. Kasar alleged that security forces treat Naga and Kuki groups differently, pointing to perceived leniency toward highway blockades by Kuki activists. The Liangmai Naga Council has called for an impartial investigation, the release of detained villagers, and medical aid for the injured. Authorities have since increased patrols and deployed additional personnel across sensitive sections of the Kangpokpi district.
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