Killing of 4 Eastern Flank cadres spark backlash
An office allegedly used by NSCN (I-M)—Wung Tangkhul Region office—was set ablaze by an irate mob in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Sunday, officials said, following the killing of four cadres of the outfit’s Eastern Flank in a separate incident.
The violence was triggered by the alleged killing of four cadres at Hongbei village junction under Kamjong district late Saturday night. Tension gripped Ukhrul district headquarters from Sunday morning after news of the killings spread, with allegations pointing towards possible involvement of some NSCN (I-M) cadres, further escalating the situation.
According to reports, six cadres were returning from Kasom Khullen when unidentified assailants intercepted their four-wheeler and opened fire. Four occupants were killed on the spot, while two others reportedly managed to escape unharmed. A police team from Kasom Khullen police station rushed to the site and recovered the bodies after conducting a spot inquiry on Sunday morning.
In a statement, NSCN Eastern Flank claimed that members of a rival group had stopped the vehicle and fired at the cadres.
Following the incident, a group of people gathered at the alleged NSCN (I-M) office in Ukhrul, accusing the outfit of involvement in the killings and demanding immediate action against those responsible. The protest soon turned violent, with the mob setting fire to the structure. Officials said no casualties were reported as the office was unoccupied at the time.
Meanwhile, NSCN (I-M), in a statement, denied issuing any directive to carry out attacks against any group or faction. The organisation said an internal investigation was underway to ascertain the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident.
Condemning the killings, Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) expressed shock and anguish, terming the incident a tragic case of fratricide. The organisation described such violence as a “social disgrace” and said it did not condone any form of internal conflict.
NPMHR also alleged that divisive external influences were contributing to internal discord among Nagas. It appealed for restraint and unity, urging all sections to uphold peace and solidarity. The organisation conveyed condolences to the bereaved families .