Security forces and suspected Kuki militants exchanged fire during an operation in Kangpokpi district, while CoTU announced an indefinite bandh on NH-2 and NH-37.
Imphal, June 21: An exchange of fire reportedly took place between security forces and armed Kuki militants during a search operation in Kangpokpi district on Sunday, even as the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) announced an indefinite emergency bandh along National Highway-2 and National Highway-37 alleging selective security operations in the Leimakhong-Kangchup area.
According to information received, the clash occurred between Leilon Vaiphei, a Kuki village, and Konsakhul, a Naga village, under Kangpokpi district. Sources said the confrontation took place at around 8:30 am and again at about 2 pm as security personnel carried out an operation in the area.
The operation was reportedly launched by a joint team comprising the Indian Army, CRPF and Manipur Police. Security forces had begun the operation on Saturday evening in and around Leilon Vaiphei and Konsakhul, and the exercise continued until late Sunday evening.
Sources claimed that bombs were used during the exchange between the militants and the security forces. However, there was no immediate official confirmation regarding casualties or injuries on either side at the time of filing this report. The operation comes amid heightened tensions in the Leimakhong-Kangchup region, where recent incidents have further strained relations between communities residing in the area.
Meanwhile, CoTU issued a statement strongly condemning what it described as "partial and selective" security operations in the Leimakhong-Kangchup area. The organisation alleged that security measures undertaken in the region had failed to ensure equal protection and impartial enforcement of law and order.
In its statement, CoTU said it was disturbed by reports of security actions which, according to the perception of affected residents, had created concerns regarding neutrality in the handling of the situation.
The organisation asserted that security forces and the government have a responsibility to safeguard all citizens without discrimination. It further claimed that any perception of bias could aggravate tensions and undermine public confidence in institutions responsible for maintaining peace and security.
Referring to recent incidents in the region, CoTU expressed concern over the reported killing of three Christian pastors and twelve Kuki villagers. The organisation stated that the incidents had caused grief and fear among members of the Kuki-Zo community.
The committee also referred to reports of attacks on villages, destruction of homes and displacement of civilians. It reiterated its demand for the identification and prosecution of those responsible through what it termed a transparent and time-bound investigation process.
In its appeal to the Central Government, particularly the Ministry of Home Affairs, CoTU called for impartial and professional conduct of all security operations, enhanced protection for vulnerable villages, an independent investigation into the reported killings, measures to prevent further violence and accountability for any alleged lapses in security duties.
As a mark of protest, the organisation announced an emergency indefinite bandh along NH-2 and NH-37 with effect from 4 pm on Sunday.
The highways serve as critical transport corridors connecting Manipur with neighbouring states and are vital routes for the movement of passengers and essential goods.
CoTU stated that medical emergencies, ambulance services and humanitarian relief activities would remain exempt from the bandh. It also appealed to the public to maintain peace and restraint during the protest period.
There was no immediate response from the security forces or government authorities regarding the allegations made by CoTU. The situation in parts of Kangpokpi district remained tense late Sunday evening as security operations continued and authorities monitored developments in the area.
