Ukhrul, April 30, 2026:
The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has issued a strong press communiqué condemning a recent bomb attack at New Heaven and the continued firing at civilian homes by suspected Kuki militants in Sinakeithei village. The incidents reportedly occurred around 3:00 am on April 28, adding to what the committee described as a series of attacks targeting the area since late February. In its statement, the TNL accused the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Central Security Forces of showing “bias and indifference” toward the plight of Tangkhul Nagas. The committee alleged that despite repeated appeals from local leaders, including Ukhrul MLA Awangbow Newmai and Vice President Mercy Khongai, adequate security measures have not been implemented to protect civilians in Sinakeithei.
The communiqué further questioned the role of security forces during an alleged operation on April 28 evening, when Kuki militants reportedly attacked the village stronghold. According to TNL, personnel from the Kangpokpi Police and central forces were present in the area, raising concerns over their response and effectiveness. “How can we then trust the Central Security Forces that their intentions are to bring order?” the statement asked. The committee also expressed concern over what it described as repeated instances of security forces targeting civilian infrastructure, including the destruction of defensive shelters, rather than taking action against armed groups. It claimed such actions have eroded public trust and worsened the security situation.
Highlighting broader grievances, TNL reiterated its demand for the replacement of Central Security Forces with State Forces, alleging that the former have “betrayed the trust” of the local population. It also stated that multiple appeals to the MHA have gone unanswered. The statement referenced an order issued on April 29 by the Superintendent of Police, Ukhrul, for a joint combing operation involving central forces and state police in Sinakeithei and surrounding areas such as Shongphu, Mullam, and Ringui. However, the TNL alleged that these operations exceeded their mandate and contributed to further mistrust among civilians. Additionally, the committee raised suspicions of alleged collaboration between security forces and Kuki militants, claiming that certain areas in Ukhrul district are being used as transit camps. It warned that such developments, if true, pose a serious threat to civilian safety. Concluding the communique, the TNL stated that if what it termed as “biased conduct” by central forces continues, the Tangkhul Naga community may be compelled to resort to democratic means of protest. The situation in Ukhrul district remains tense, with growing concerns over civilian safety and the role of security agencies in the region.
