IT Correspondent
Ukhrul, November 10:
Alleging a disturbing pattern of violence against members of the Naga community in Manipur, social activist Ashang Kasar has approached the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), seeking an independent investigation into 30 reported deaths since February 4, 2026, when Yumnam Khemchand Singh assumed office as Chief Minister.
In a memorandum submitted to the NHRC Chairperson in New Delhi on November 9, Kasar called for urgent intervention, alleging serious failures in ensuring the safety of Naga civilians amid recurring incidents of ambushes, armed attacks, abductions and other violent confrontations.
The memorandum lists victims belonging to the Tangkhul, Liangmai, Rongmei, Chiru, Poumai, Mao and other Naga communities, including members of Naga Village Guards. It cites fatalities in Ukhrul, Kamjong, Tamenglong, Kangpokpi and Senapati districts, raising questions over the effectiveness of security arrangements and the State administration’s response.
Among the cases highlighted are the killings of Tangkhul civilians Chinaoshang Shokwungnao and Yaruingam Vashum in a road ambush, and Naga Village Guard Horshokmi Jamang. It also names several Liangmai victims allegedly abducted and subsequently killed, including Rev. Dr. Manu Thiumai, Kenpibou Chawang, Phenrongwibou Thiumal, Phenrilungbou Chawang, Dilip Thiumat and Kaliwangbou Abonmai.
Other cases include the killing of Rongmei Naga Chungjanglung Panmei in Kangpokpi, the death of Naga Village Guard Lanbimei Riamei during an armed confrontation and multiple casualties in separate ambushes, including the August 27 incident along IT Road.
Invoking Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, Kasar urged the NHRC to take suo motu cognizance of the reported deaths, order an independent and impartial inquiry into all cited incidents and examine whether the State administration and security agencies failed to prevent the violence or protect vulnerable communities.
He also sought appropriate compensation, relief and rehabilitation for bereaved families, besides fixing accountability wherever administrative or security lapses are established.
The petition raises a fundamental question about the State’s constitutional obligation to protect every citizen, irrespective of community identity. Kasar maintained that the reported deaths cannot be dismissed as isolated incidents and demanded institutional intervention to establish the circumstances behind the fatalities and prevent further loss of life.
The NHRC has been urged to ensure that the reported killings receive independent scrutiny and that justice and accountability are not compromised.
