Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, June 8:
Tension prevailed in parts of Ukhrul district after the Tangkhul Naga youth body Khanuithot-Khon alleged that personnel of the 40th Assam Rifles used force against civilians protesting the construction of a disputed military outpost at New Heaven in Shangshak area.
In a statement issued through its Information and Media Cell, Khanuithot-Khon claimed that villagers and members of Tangkhul women’s groups had gathered peacefully at New Heaven, Shokvao Village and Finch Corner to oppose the establishment of what they described as an unauthorized Assam Rifles outpost. The organization alleged that the facility was constructed without consultation or prior consent of the concerned village authorities.
According to the youth body, the protest followed a public appeal issued by the Kathe Katamnao Long on June 4, calling upon the Assam Rifles to dismantle the outpost and respect customary village governance.
Khanuithot-Khon alleged that security personnel resorted to force instead of engaging with the protesters. It claimed that more than 200 rounds of live ammunition were fired between 3 pm and 4 pm in and around the protest sites, causing panic among local residents.
The organization further alleged that 22 Tangkhul women sustained injuries after being assaulted with sticks and batons during the operation. Among the injured was reportedly a 70-year-old woman identified as A.S. Khathingla of Shangshak. It also claimed that the president of the Kathe Katamnao Long was assaulted while leading the demonstration.
The youth body additionally accused security personnel of obstructing media coverage by threatening journalists and compelling individuals to delete photographs and video recordings of the incident.
Demanding accountability, Khanuithot-Khon called for a judicial inquiry into the incident, disciplinary and legal action against those responsible, and the dismantling of the disputed outpost.
The organization alleged that the actions violated constitutional guarantees relating to freedom of speech, peaceful assembly and personal liberty, as well as provisions governing village administration in the hill areas of Manipur.