Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, May 5:
The Eastern Command Naga Village Guard (NVG), Naga Hills, has issued a strong condemnation following another armed confrontation in the Ringui Horei Hills, alleging repeated attacks by Kuki militants operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and expressing serious concern over what it described as the “failure and bias” of Indian security forces in the region.
In a statement released by its Media Cell, Eastern Command, NVG said its volunteers came under fire at around 5:00 am on May 4 while monitoring the Horei Hills area under Ringui village jurisdiction. The organization claimed that armed Kuki SoO cadres and alleged narco-terrorist elements had established fortified positions and bunkers within what it described as Naga ancestral land.
Calling the incident the second attack within less than a week, the NVG termed the development “deeply alarming,” accusing militant groups of brazenly encamping in contested areas and targeting local village defense volunteers.
The NVG questioned how armed cadres were able to occupy the same area shortly after a combing operation conducted by Indian security forces on April 30, during which NVG volunteers were reportedly asked to vacate their positions. According to the statement, dismantling local shelters during the operation left volunteers exposed and vulnerable to subsequent attacks.
“This pattern raises serious questions regarding the role and impartiality of security forces deployed to ensure peace,” the statement said, alleging a breach of trust by agencies responsible for civilian protection.
The organization further alleged that militant groups were openly collecting illegal taxes from vehicles along National Highway-202 at Shangkai in broad daylight. Despite movement under security escort, travelers were reportedly threatened and forced to pay money while security personnel allegedly failed to intervene.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, the NVG demanded immediate action to halt extortion activities and restore confidence among civilians using the highway. The group warned that continued inaction could compel local defense volunteers to take independent measures for community protection.
The statement also renewed calls for the Government of India to review and revoke the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki armed groups, alleging repeated violations of ceasefire ground rules and continued armed aggression against civilian areas.
“We have endured enough intimidation and attacks on our people,” the NVG said, asserting that its volunteers would remain committed to defending local communities and safeguarding ancestral land.