Manipur Deputy CM Accused of Switching Off Phone Amid Naga Abductions
Manipur Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen allegedly switched off her phone during Naga abductions. Naga groups demand her removal; violence may complicate 2027 polls.
Manipur's Deputy Chief Minister, Nemcha Kipgen, has come under scrutiny after Deputy CM Losii Dikho alleged she switched off her phone during a series of abductions targeting Naga communities. The remarks have intensified political friction in the state, already grappling with ethnic violence.
Naga organisations have reportedly demanded Kipgen's removal from office. The demand stems from her husband's role as the head of a Kuki group accused of orchestrating the attacks. Dikho's comments suggest the allegations have created a credibility crisis within the administration.
Dikho further warned that the continuing violence in hill districts could severely hamper the conduct of Assembly elections scheduled for 2027. He indicated that the prevailing unrest poses a significant challenge to the electoral process and governance in the region.
The developments highlight the fragile inter-community relations in Manipur, where tensions between Naga and Kuki groups have periodically flared. The state government now faces pressure to address the accusations while managing the broader security situation.