Security agencies maintain law and order in Moreh amid concerns raised by CSOs

In a continued effort to maintain peace and stability in the sensitive border town of Moreh, central security agencies including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Assam Rifles have taken necessary and lawful actions in line with national security protocols. Recent operations, including the arrest of Kamginthang Gangte—a cadre under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement—demonstrate the Centre’s firm commitment to upholding the rule of law in Manipur, even in challenging and volatile environments.
While these operations have drawn responses from certain civil society organizations (CSOs) representing the Kuki-Zo community, the actions by the agencies reflect their duty to enforce justice, investigate criminal activities, and protect public order in accordance with due process. The arrest of the SoO cadre followed legal procedures, under the framework of the ongoing investigation into organized violence and insurgent links following the ethnic unrest that erupted on May 3, 2023.
On June 6, members of Joint Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from Moreh submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla via Tengnoupal MLA Letpao Haokip, raising concerns over what they described as unfair targeting of Kuki-Zo leaders and SoO members. The memorandum also voiced discontent over the conduct of Lt. Col. Nitin Sharma of the 5 Assam Rifles, requesting his reassignment.
Despite these expressions of dissent, both the Assam Rifles and the NIA have been operating under strict protocols, with their actions contributing to the prevention of further escalation in a region known for its strategic sensitivity along the Indo-Myanmar border. These agencies have played a vital role in containing violence, protecting civilians, and conducting critical intelligence-based operations in the wake of last year’s ethnic strife.
In a display of democratic rights, a 24-hour shutdown was observed in Moreh by the CSOs, concluding peacefully on June 6. A similar shutdown called by the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) in Tengnoupal District began the same day and is scheduled to end at 6:00 pm on June 7. However, report said that despite the protest shutdowns, the overall situation in Moreh remains under control due to the coordinated efforts of security personnel and administrative authorities.