Normal life came to a standstill across Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur today as a 24-hour total shutdown called by the United Naga Council (UNC) drew widespread response in protest against the killing of six Naga civilians who had been abducted nearly a month ago.
The shutdown, which began at 6 a.m., shut down markets, businesses, educational institutions, government offices and transport services across several hill districts, reflecting growing anger within the Naga community over the killings.
The six victims were among 18 Naga civilians, including two pastors, allegedly abducted by Kuki militant cadres from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13. Their mutilated bodies were recovered on Wednesday from a forested area near Kharam Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district, triggering widespread condemnation and demands for justice.
The UNC announced that the bodies of the six victims would not be received until its demands are met, including the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups and the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the abduction and killings.
NPF State office vandalised over the dead of 6 Liangmai men
The state headquarters of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) at Liangmai Taphou in Senapati district was allegedly vandalised by a mob on Wednesday night amid mounting public outrage over the recovery of the remains believed to be those of six missing Liangmai Naga men.
According to reports, a crowd gathered at the party office late on June 10 and damaged property inside the premises. Visuals from the site showed signs of extensive vandalism.
The incident occurred a day after reports emerged regarding the recovery of the remains of six civilians who had been missing since May 13. The development has triggered widespread grief and anger among community members and civil society organisations.
Protesters reportedly accused the authorities of failing to ensure the safety of the missing persons and demanded justice for the victims.
The development comes just days after the release of 14 Kuki hostages who had been held captive for nearly four weeks. The killings have intensified tensions between Naga and Kuki communities and renewed scrutiny of the security situation in the hill districts.
Meanwhile, security forces launched operations in Ukhrul district following intelligence inputs of possible attacks on vulnerable villages, recovering a cache of arms and ammunition from unauthorised hilltop bunkers.
Police said operations would continue to prevent further violence and safeguard affected communities.