Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen has condemned the reported killing of 17-year-old N.K. Wiphenbou in Tamenglong district and called for a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding his death.
In a statement, Nemcha Kipgen said Wiphenbou, son of N.K. Maihinlakbou of Upper Takou village under Tamei Sub-Division, was reportedly killed while travelling towards Tamei to purchase essential items for his family.
Describing the death of the teenager as deeply distressing, the Deputy Chief Minister said the loss of a young life in such circumstances was a matter of serious concern and stressed that the safety of innocent civilians must be ensured.
Nemcha Kipgen extended her condolences to the bereaved family, saying that she shared their grief over the loss.
She also appealed to all concerned to maintain peace and exercise restraint to prevent further harm to civilians amid the prevailing security concerns in the area.
The Deputy Chief Minister urged the authorities to establish the circumstances that led to the teenager’s death through a thorough investigation and take appropriate legal action.
The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has also strongly condemned the alleged killing of N.K. Wiphenbou and urged the Governments of Manipur and India to take concrete action against those responsible for attacks on civilians.
In a statement, ANSAM alleged that atrocities against Naga people and other indigenous civilians have continued in several conflict-affected areas of the State, including areas under Kangpokpi, Tamenglong and Ukhrul districts, as well as parts of the valley.
The association alleged that Kuki armed militants operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement have been involved in attacks targeting civilians, including teachers, women, students and children. It questioned the response of the authorities, stating that condemnations without visible follow-up action would not be sufficient to ensure the safety of civilians.
ANSAM specifically condemned the alleged killing of 17-year-old student NK Wiphenbou of Upper Takou village. According to the association, Wiphenbou was allegedly killed by KNF(P) and other Kuki armed militants operating under the SoO arrangement with the Government of India on September 21, 2026, in an area between Takou and Tama (Malek) villages under Tamei Sub-Division of Tamenglong district.
The association urged the State and Central governments to take appropriate lawful action against those responsible for the killing and other alleged crimes against civilians.
ANSAM further appealed to the authorities to provide immediate and effective security to civilians residing in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas and ensure the protection of their lives and properties.
The association maintained that government statements, condemnations and dialogue efforts should be accompanied by concrete measures, accountability and effective enforcement of the law against those found responsible for criminal acts.
ANSAM also called upon the authorities to demonstrate their commitment to the rule of law by ensuring civilian protection and taking appropriate action against alleged perpetrators.
Also, the Zeliangrong Welfare Association Delhi (ZWAD) has condemned the killing of NK Wiphenbou.
In a statement, ZWAD described the killing of the unarmed civilian as a “heinous violation” of human life and expressed shock and grief over the incident.
The association conveyed solidarity with the bereaved family and the people of Upper Nkou community, while extending condolences to the family of the deceased.
ZWAD appealed to the Central and State governments and law enforcement agencies to take immediate action to identify and apprehend those responsible for the killing and bring them to justice.