TNL alleges administrative inaction in Ukhrul crisis, seeks accountability

Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, April 8:
The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has accused the Ukhrul district administration of failing to protect civilians amid escalating violence in parts of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, and has called for immediate corrective measures.
In a press communiqué issued on April 7, the Working Committee of TNL stated that since early February, several Tangkhul Naga areas have been affected by continued tension, armed incidents and disruption to normal life. It alleged that residents in a number of villages have been living under fear due to repeated incidents of firing and insecurity.
The organisation cited villages such as Sinakeithei, Thoyee and Sharkaphung as among the affected areas, claiming that incidents of firing have damaged property and created panic among villagers. It urged the authorities to take steps to ensure safety and restore normalcy.
Raising concerns over administrative response, TNL alleged that certain actions taken by authorities, including the dismantling of bunkers set up by village volunteers in Thoyee on April 6, have caused resentment among local residents. It further claimed that appeals to address the presence of armed groups in nearby areas have not been adequately acted upon.
The communiqué also highlighted issues along National Highway-202, alleging continued obstruction and illegal taxation in certain stretches. It questioned the effectiveness of enforcement measures in view of the reported incidents.
TNL additionally referred to reports that Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner Ashish Das was threatened by armed individuals along NH-202 on April 6, and stated that the situation reflects the seriousness of the prevailing law and order challenges.
The organisation criticised what it described as delayed administrative measures, including the non-imposition of prohibitory orders during periods of heightened tension, and called for timely intervention in such situations.
Seeking accountability, TNL urged the district administration and the State government to take concrete steps to ensure free movement along highways, address security concerns in vulnerable areas, and act impartially.
The statement also cautioned that prolonged inaction could further aggravate public anxiety, and stressed the need for restoring public confidence through effective governance and security measures.