TNL demands flushing out of SoO militants after fresh attack injures civilian in Ukhrul

Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, April 24:
The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has called for immediate action to flush out armed cadres operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and sought intensified area domination by security forces in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts following a fresh attack on civilians.
In a statement, the Working Committee of the TNL strongly condemned what it described as a “senseless and cowardly” attack in which residents of Sinakeither village came under heavy gunfire and alleged bombing on Thursday afternoon. A 27-year-old villager, identified as Chihanngam Rungsung, son of Theingasung Rungsung, sustained a bullet injury to his ankle and is undergoing treatment at District Hospital, Ukhrul.
The organisation alleged that the incident is part of a continuing pattern of violence attributed to Kuki militants under the SoO arrangement since tensions escalated in the Litan area on February 8 this year. It claimed that several Tangkhul Naga villages in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts have been living under persistent threat, with civilians facing fear, displacement, and disruption to daily life.
The TNL further alleged that armed cadres, supported by settlements in surrounding areas, have obstructed free movement along National Highway-202A, a key route connecting remote hill regions. It claimed that incidents along the highway have included alleged abductions, harassment of passengers, extortion of transporters, and attacks on civilian vehicles.
Despite what it termed sustained provocation, the organisation stated that the community has exercised restraint, but warned that continued attacks on civilians cannot be tolerated indefinitely.
The TNL urged both the Central and State governments to take “decisive action” against SoO signatory groups accused of violating the ground rules, including measures to disarm and remove armed cadres operating in conflict zones. It also called for restoration of full administrative control and enhanced security deployment in vulnerable areas across Ukhrul, Kamjong, and adjoining regions.
Warning of further escalation if the situation remains unaddressed, the organisation stressed the need to ensure safety, dignity, and free movement of civilians, stating that continued inaction could deepen instability and humanitarian concerns in the region.