The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) strongly denounces the recent murder of two Kuki-Zo individuals, Thangin Baite and Thangboimang Khongsai, by armed militants believed to be associated with the NSCN-IM. Their bodies were found after they went missing while repairing waterways for their paddy fields. The incident also involved the injury of another individual who is currently receiving treatment. CoTU’s press release indicates that the Tangkhul militants have been inciting villagers to claim Kuki-Zo lands in Ukhrul district, a situation that escalated with the prior destruction of Kuki villages. Efforts by the newly appointed Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Dikho, along with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from both communities, to address these tensions were unsuccessful due to the Tangkhul community’s non-compliance. CoTU labeled the March 11 incident as part of a larger scheme to evict Kuki-Zo communities from their lands, perpetuated through violent acts that instill fear among local cultivators. With growing concerns about law enforcement’s inability to curb such violence, CoTU demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the murders within 48 hours, warning that local volunteers may take protective measures if no action is taken and asserting that they should not be held accountable for any resulting actions.
Imphal