Ukhrul, May 4: The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has issued a strongly worded press communiqué accusing Central Security Forces of complicity in a series of violent attacks allegedly carried out by Kuki Narco Terrorists on Naga Village Guards in Ukhrul district.
The statement expressed deep anguish over what it described as a “premeditated and coordinated assault” on Naga Village Guards at Ringui Norei Kaphung, where a joint combing operation by Central Security Forces reportedly preceded an attack by Kuki armed groups. The TNL questioned the intent behind such operations, suggesting they may be “mere optics” rather than genuine efforts to curb militancy. According to the communiqué, on April 28, a combing operation at Lungter in Sinakeithei village was followed by a subsequent attack the same evening by Kuki SoO cadres and militants. The TNL raised serious concerns about whether such operations are indirectly enabling militant aggression rather than preventing it. The situation further escalated in late April and early May, with reports of heavy firing in areas such as Shongphel, Mullam, and Yaolen villages regions identified as strongholds of Kuki armed groups. The TNL alleged that despite the presence of Central forces, attacks on Naga villages continued unabated. In one instance, villagers reportedly sought assistance to neutralize militant bunkers, but no action was taken. Instead, the following day, security forces allegedly entered the village and destroyed defensive structures built by locals while allowing militants to continue their offensive.
The TNL claimed that since the onset of violence, Naga Village Guards have exercised restraint, acting only in self-defense. However, it accused Central forces of failing to uphold their assurances to protect civilians, thereby forcing villagers into a vulnerable position.
In a particularly grave allegation, the organisation stated that Central Security Forces are “actively providing information” to Kuki SoO cadres regarding the movements and locations of Naga Village Guards. It termed this as a “clear act of complicity” and a violation of the mandate to safeguard civilians. Calling the situation a “crime against humanity,” the TNL warned that continued inaction or bias could further destabilize the region and erode trust in state institutions. The group also cautioned that if the Government of India continues what it described as a “covert proxy war,” the Naga people may be compelled to seek international intervention to defend their land and rights. The TNL call for accountability and immediate corrective measures to restore peace and ensure the safety of indigenous communities in the conflict-affected areas.
