Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Nov 27:
The Tangkhul Naga Foothills’ Organisation (TNFO) has issued a stern warning to the government, demanding immediate action against Kuki militants who have been targeting farmers during the paddy harvest. The organization also called for the arrest of the chief of Urangpat Kuki village, accusing him of sheltering criminals within his jurisdiction. Failure to act, TNFO warned, could lead to intense agitation.
TNFO’s statement comes in the wake of escalating violence in the region. On November 22, Kuki militants allegedly opened fire on Tangkhul Naga farmers at Alulou, situated between Mayophung and Urangpat. While the farmers narrowly escaped unharmed, they were forced to abandon their paddy and machinery, resulting in significant losses.
This incident follows a series of similar attacks. On November 11, Kanshok Horam, a 32-year-old from New Canaan village, was injured during a firing at Shanti Khongbal. Earlier, on November 9, another attack in Bishnupur claimed the life of Sapam Sofia, a 34-year-old woman. These targeted assaults have created an atmosphere of fear, disrupted harvesting activities, and inflicted substantial economic and emotional losses on the affected communities.
“The attacks on Tangkhul farmers threaten our very existence as a neutral party and as a community,” the TNFO stated. Despite being neutral in ongoing conflicts, Tangkhul farmers have been repeatedly provoked and attacked, a situation the TNFO finds intolerable. The organization has reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence but made it clear that it would not accept or tolerate violence against its people.
The TNFO also criticized the Indian Army, accusing it of failing to control violence in sensitive areas. “The Army has not reined in Kuki militants involved in heinous crimes against a neutral community,” the TNFO said, adding that if the Army cannot provide adequate security, they should withdraw from Tangkhul areas altogether.
The organization has demanded swift government intervention, including the issuance of an arrest warrant against the chief of Urangpat Kuki village for allegedly harboring criminals. Furthermore, the TNFO called for compensation and relief for farmers whose crops and livelihoods have been devastated due to the ongoing violence.
Expressing its resolve to protect the community, the TNFO stated that it was prepared to launch democratic agitations if authorities fail to act. “The provocative attacks on Tangkhul people could escalate the situation, leading to serious consequences,” the TNFO warned, urging the government to act decisively to safeguard lives and restore peace.
