The Joint Tribes Council (JTC) of Manipur has raised grave concerns regarding threats and intimidation directed at indigenous Naga residents of Ireng (Puilong) Naga village, allegedly by the Kuki National Front (KNF). The JTC has firmly stated that no designated Suspension of Operations (SoO) camps or any illegal camps are to be established in the Naga foothills, and that unauthorized road constructions, termed as “animal roads,” along with other structures on Naga ancestral lands, are prohibited. Furthermore, the council has declared a zero-tolerance policy on illegal poppy cultivation in regions inhabited by Naga communities.
The council reports that a KNF leader, Tiger Kipgen (also known as Thangboi or Hao-genthang Kipgen), allegedly issued life-threatening threats on January 12, warning of imminent violence against the Naga population, including firing upon them and the burning of entire villages. The KNF, which is a signatory to the SoO agreement with the Government, purportedly escalated tensions later that day when about 30 armed cadres were seen advancing toward Ireng village, perceived by the JTC as an intimidation tactic against local residents.
An FIR against Kipgen and the armed KNF members was filed on January 14, following which the Working Committee of the Liangmai Naga Council submitted petitions to various authorities, including the Union Home Minister and the Governor of Manipur, seeking intervention. Despite the threats and the FIR submission, the JTC has criticized the lack of substantial action taken against the accused.
The council has called upon both the Government of India and the Manipur government to act swiftly and decisively against the KNF to secure the safety of civilians. While the JTC upholds its commitment to peace, the rule of law, and the defense of indigenous lands and lives, it has warned that a failure to act may result in “unavoidable developments,” insisting that the council should not be held accountable for any resulting consequences.