Tangkhul MLAs step in amid rising violence, engage TNL and reach out to Kuki leaders to push for lasting peace along NH-202

Special Correspondent 
Ukhrul, March 26:
In a decisive and timely intervention amid escalating violence and growing insecurity in the hill districts, Tangkhul Naga legislators Ram Muivah and Leishiyo Keishing undertook a crucial peace mission to Ukhrul, engaging with the apex civil body Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) while also reaching out to Kuki community leaders in a bid to restore normalcy and rebuild trust.
The two MLAs travelled from Imphal to Ukhrul via the volatile stretch of National Highway-202, passing through sensitive zones such as Shangkai, Mongkot Chephu, and Litan—areas that have witnessed sporadic gunfire and heightened tension in recent days. Their visit comes against the backdrop of violent incidents reported in Sherkaphung and Shangkai raising alarm among local residents and commuters.
Addressing the media after a closed-door meeting at the TNL headquarters in Wino Bazar, Ukhrul, Ram Muivah stated that the primary objective of the visit was to directly engage with grassroots leadership and understand the realities faced by the people. He emphasized that the delegation was deeply concerned about the recent violence and the prevailing atmosphere of fear along the highway corridor.
“We came to listen, to understand, and to work collectively towards solutions that can restore peace,” Muivah said, describing the interaction with TNL leaders as “cordial and constructive.” He added that the apex body had put forward several practical suggestions, which would be conveyed to the state Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, for immediate and long-term action.
The visit, initially planned to include Khashim Vashum, MLA Chingai was scaled down due to his health constraints. Nevertheless, the two MLAs proceeded with the mission, holding extensive consultations not only with TNL but also with other frontal organisations representing community interests.
Significantly, on their return journey, the MLAs made efforts to bridge divides by engaging informally with Kuki civil society organisation leaders and village headmen in Shangkai. The interaction, reportedly attended by district officials including the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Ukhrul, underscored a rare attempt at dialogue between communities amid strained relations.
Further demonstrating their commitment, the MLAs visited injured victims of the Sharkaphung incident at the district hospital and interacted with security personnel stationed at Litan police station, acknowledging both civilian suffering and the challenges faced by forces on the ground.
Sources indicate that the legislators have assured steps to press for enhanced security deployment along NH-202, particularly between Wungvei (Mahadev) and Litan, to ensure safe passage for civilians and prevent further escalation.
The initiative by the Tangkhul MLAs signals a proactive political outreach at a critical juncture, blending community engagement with administrative coordination. While tensions remain fragile, their efforts to initiate dialogue with both Naga and Kuki stakeholders offer a cautious yet hopeful pathway toward restoring peace and stability in the region.