Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, July 7:
The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has strongly condemned the ambush on an Assam Rifles convoy near Lungshang River along National Highway-202 that left two personnel dead, describing the attack as a serious setback to ongoing peace efforts in Manipur.
In a statement issued through its Media Cell, the Tangkhul apex body said unidentified armed assailants allegedly carried out the attack at around 1:45 p.m. on July 6, killing Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and Havildar Chandra Mohan Singh of the 40 Assam Rifles, stationed at Shangshak.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, TNL conveyed its condolences to the bereaved families and the Assam Rifles, acknowledging the sacrifice of the slain personnel.
The organisation said the attack comes at a time when Manipur continues to face a fragile security situation and warned that such incidents could undermine ongoing efforts by Tangkhul civil society organisations to restore peace, normalcy and public confidence in the state.
Calling for an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation, TNL urged the authorities to identify and bring those responsible to justice at the earliest.
The organisation also appealed against speculation and the premature attribution of responsibility, noting that no group had claimed responsibility for the ambush at the time of issuing the statement. It cautioned that unverified allegations or attempts to politicise or communalise the incident could further inflame tensions and jeopardise efforts to foster trust and harmony among communities.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace, TNL urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and work collectively to prevent further escalation of violence in the state.