The United Naga Council (UNC) has announced a three-day “total shutdown across all Naga areas” under its jurisdiction from midnight of April 20 to midnight of April 23, 2026 to mourn the death of two Naga civilians allegedly killed by Kuki militants and as a collective expression of condemnation, Newmai News report stated.
According to a statement, the UNC convened a joint emergency meeting with All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Women Union (NWU) and district apex bodies on Sunday at its office in Senapati in view of the unfolding situation and the killing of Naga civilians.
The meeting condemned the “barbaric incident” of waylaying and killing of Chinaoshang Shokwungnao (45) and Yaruingam Vashum (42), along NH-202 at TM Kasom village, allegedly by Kuki militants. It stated that the attack on unarmed civilians travelling on a public highway was a deliberate assault on the dignity, safety and territorial integrity of the Naga people.
The meeting viewed the incident as a direct challenge to the Naga people and a grave disruption of their collective security and right to peaceful existence. Naga leaders condoled the deaths by observing a minute of silence and prayer led by Thamdok Francis, president of Chandel Naga People’s Organisation (CNPO).
It also expressed concern over the handling of security measures in Naga areas and questioned the seriousness and sincerity of the state government, stating that the incident occurred immediately after the visit of the Manipur chief minister to Ukhrul district, holding that they were liable for moral responsibility.
The meeting resolved to impose a total shutdown across all Naga areas from midnight of April 20 to midnight of April 23, during which all public and private institutions, business establishments and vehicular movement shall remain suspended, except for emergencies. UNC further announced that a candlelight vigil would be observed on April 23 from 6:30 pm in all Naga district headquarters and at Imphal to honour the departed souls and reaffirm commitment to peace with dignity.
It also stated that during the three days of mourning, Nagas in Manipur would suspend all social and economic ties with the Kukis in accordance with customary practice.
UNC appealed to all Naga citizens, organisations and institutions to cooperate fully in observing the resolutions.
