Massive Peace Protest Held In Imphal Demanding Justice For 6 Naga Civilians Killed In Manipur

Guwahati: The All Naga Students Association of Manipur on Saturday took out a massive peace-march on the street of Imphal demanding justice for six Naga civilians who were allegedly abducted and later killed in Leilon Vaiphei village in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district.

The student body said, “We are demanding justice for the infamous Leilon Vaiphei massacre carried out by KNF-P.” Participants described the demonstration as a peaceful mobilisation aimed at seeking accountability and urging government intervention.

The rally commenced from Tangkhul Baptist Church in Imphal and proceeded towards Khuyathong before returning and concluding at Mao Market. A large number of participants joined the march carrying placards and raising slogans seeking justice for the deceased civilians and restoration of peace.

Among the messages displayed during the protest were calls for justice for the six victims, demands for stronger government action, appeals for peace and public safety, and criticism of the existing security and political response to the incident. Protesters also demanded the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups and sought the removal of Deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen, alleging links between her family and the KNF-P.

ANSAM president Anteshang Maring told reporters that the demonstration was organised to raise the concerns of families and communities seeking justice for the six civilians, who, according to the organisation, had been abducted from Leilon Vaiphei and held hostage for over 20 days before they were killed.

Mr Maring stated that more than a month had passed since the abduction incident and alleged that no arrests had been made so far in connection with the case. He questioned the pace of the investigation and called for swift action against those responsible.

Alleging the involvement of KNF-P in the abduction and killings, Mr Maring said that ANSAM, in line with the position of the United Naga Council, was demanding a formal investigation into the group and sought legal action in accordance with applicable laws. He also demanded that the organisation be designated as a terrorist outfit if evidence established its involvement.

Asking to suspend the agreement of the Suspension of Operations with Kuki rebel groups, Mr Maring alleged that the arrangement had been misused and called upon the government to review and revoke the mechanism if necessary to prevent future violence.