Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, May 19:
Senior human-rights defenders and social activists on Sunday urged the Government of India to invoke national anti-terror laws to protect Naga civilians, alleging continued violence and intimidation in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur.
Addressing a press conference at the Ukhrul Press Club, the activists accused both the Centre and the Manipur government of failing to effectively apply existing security and legal mechanisms against armed groups allegedly involved in violence and displacement in the hill districts.
The speakers stated that India has enacted several anti-terror legislations, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act, but claimed similar measures were not being meaningfully applied in Naga areas of Manipur.
Senior human-rights activist Hungyohung alleged that armed Kuki militant groups operating under Suspension of Operation arrangements had intensified attacks and intimidation against Naga communities using guerrilla tactics, explosives and drones.
“We are being terrorised in our own homeland,” he said, while questioning why such groups had not been declared unlawful organisations under existing security laws.
The activists also raised concerns over land rights, demographic changes and identity issues in the hill districts. They alleged that cross-border migration and refugee influxes had altered traditional social balances and deepened tensions among indigenous communities.
Dr. Rev. YL Mingthing, convenor of the Discussion Forum Ukhrul, described the government’s handling of ethnic tensions as inadequate and said longstanding grievances among Naga tribes remained unresolved.
Senior advocate Daniel Ramsan highlighted governance issues in the hill areas, citing gaps in the implementation of the Manipur Village Authorities in Hill Areas Act, 1986. He stated that many village authorities across the hill districts lacked offices, staff and financial support.
The speakers also referred to protections under Article 371C, alleging that safeguards related to land, forests and customary institutions had not been properly implemented.
The activists further criticised the handling of security operations in conflict zones, claiming that deployment patterns and responses had weakened public confidence among local communities.
The coalition demanded uniform application of anti-terror laws, investigation into alleged militant activities affecting Naga civilians, review of Suspension of Operation agreements, strengthening of civilian protection measures and implementation of constitutional safeguards in the hill districts.
The press conference concluded with a warning that continued insecurity, unresolved political grievances and perceived unequal protection under law could further deepen alienation among hill communities in Manipur.