Manipur Naga MLAs Seek Central Crackdown on Kuki-Zo Leaders

Nine Naga legislators from Manipur, including Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, have written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding immediate action against Kuki-Zo leaders over their alleged involvement in recent attacks on Naga civilians. The lawmakers described the current situation in the state as "critical and volatile" and pressed for urgent intervention to restore peace.

The demand follows the recovery of the bodies of six Naga men from different locations in the Kangpokpi jungle. The MLAs have alleged that the killings were carried out by Kuki-Zo armed groups and have sought the immediate arrest of those responsible.

Specifically, the legislators have called for the arrest of Thangboi Kipgen, a leader of the Kuki National Front-People (KNF-P), and his cadres, including those reportedly led by a self-styled "General Tiger." They have also demanded action against Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, accusing her office of colluding with a Kuki armed group.

In their letter, the MLAs have also urged the central government to immediately abrogate the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with all Kuki armed groups, citing alleged violations and continued attacks on civilians. They warned that failure to act on these demands would make it difficult for them to justify their continued support for the state government to the public.

The letter was signed by Losii Dikho, Awangbow Newmai, J. Kumo Sha, Dinganglung Gangmei, Khasim Vashum, Leishiyo Keishing, Janghemlung Panmei, Ram Muivah, and S.S. Olish.

In a separate development, the United Naga Council (UNC) has issued a directive asking Naga tribal organisations and village authorities to prevent villagers from cooperating with government officials during the census exercise scheduled to begin on September 1, 2026.