Naga Hoho Condemns Leilon Vaiphei Killings, Raises Alarm Over Security Situation in Naga area

Senapati, August 3: The Naga Hoho has strongly condemned the killing of six Naga men, including two pastors, at Leilon Vaiphei village, describing the incident as a “massacre” and expressing grave concern over what it calls the deteriorating security and political situation in Naga-inhabited areas, particularly in Manipur.In a press release issued following its 3rd Federal Assembly held at the Senapati District Headquarters on July 31, the apex Naga body alleged that the Indian armed forces and Kuki militant elements were engaged in actions that have intensified insecurity in the region. The Assembly stated that it was deeply disturbed by the reported brutality surrounding the killings and warned against further escalation of violence.The Naga Hoho also voiced concern over reports of proposed Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) in Naga villages. It cautioned that indiscriminate security operations, including warrantless house-to-house searches and the harassment of civilians, could create an atmosphere of fear and amount to collective punishment of innocent residents.The Assembly further opposed what it described as the continued militarization of Naga areas, arguing that villages should not be transformed into conflict zones or used as operational corridors. It maintained that such actions threaten peaceful coexistence and violate the rights of civilians.In its statement, the Naga Hoho also alleged collusion between the Government of India and Kuki militant groups, claiming that such actions undermine the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process and threaten the territorial integrity and political rights of the Naga people.Expressing dissatisfaction over what it termed the failure of both the State and Central Governments to respond to a charter of demands concerning the killing of the six Naga men, the Assembly resolved to pursue democratic measures to seek justice for the victims and their families.The Naga Hoho placed three key demands before the Government:Immediate cessation of militarization and proposed CASO operations in Naga areas, along with accountability regarding the alleged nexus between government agencies and Kuki militant elements.Immediate fulfillment of the charter of demands related to the killing of the six Naga men, and intervention by the Government of India to safeguard Naga lives, land, and identity.Measures to ensure the safety and security of the public along highways and the resolution of grievances through political and democratic means rather than coercion.Concluding the statement, the Naga Hoho reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Naga history, territory, and identity. It called upon the Naga people to remain united, vigilant, and steadfast, stating that any attempt to suppress Naga rights or exploit Naga land would be resisted through collective and democratic means.