Ukhrul, July 22: The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has strongly condemned the destruction of a Bailey Bridge connecting Kamjong headquarters with Shahamphung Sub-Division, calling it a deliberate act of sabotage that has severely disrupted connectivity in the border region.
In a press communiqué issued on Wednesday, the TNL alleged that the bridge across the Namban River, linking Kamjong to Shahamphung through Chatric Khullen and Chattric Khunou villages, was blown up with explosives during the night of July 21–22. The organisation claimed the attack was carried out by Kuki militants in collaboration with the Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B).
According to the TNL, the 130-foot Bailey Bridge, constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), served as a crucial route connecting several villages and the Shahamphung Sub-Divisional headquarters. It said those responsible allegedly planted explosives at multiple points on the bridge to ensure its complete collapse.
The organisation also alleged that a Bolero Jeep belonging to the Telecom Department, which had reportedly broken down and been left near the bridge, was set on fire during the incident.
Describing the bombing as an attack on public infrastructure and the welfare of local communities, the TNL claimed that militant groups based across the Indo-Myanmar border have continued to carry out acts of violence in the region. The committee further accused Kuki militant groups of being involved in crimes such as abduction, murder, arson, vandalism and bomb attacks, while alleging support from groups operating from Myanmar.
Calling for immediate intervention, the TNL urged the Government of India and the concerned authorities to restore the damaged bridge without delay, strengthen security in the affected areas, and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted. It said the destruction of the bridge has caused immense hardship to residents who depend on the route for transportation, essential services and daily livelihood.
The statement was issued by the Media Cell of the Working Committee, Tangkhul Naga Long.
Note: The allegations contained in the TNL’s statement have not been independently verified, and no response from the accused groups or the authorities was available at the time of publication.
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