Manipur Chassad violence has prompted Kuki civil society organisations to announce a shutdown along National Highway 202 (NH-202), demanding accountability and stronger security for civilians. The protest follows a deadly shooting in Chassad village in Kamjong district on October 17.
The Kuki Civil Society Organisations Working Committee, Ukhrul, has called for the highway shutdown from midnight on October 18 until midnight on October 22. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen has condemned the attack and called for action against those responsible.
Manipur Chassad violence: Details of the shooting
The latest violence claimed the life of Seikhohao Haokip, a 35-year-old resident of Chassad village. According to the Chassad Village Authority, he was shot while villagers and local leaders were repairing electricity lines to restore power.
The firing also left several people injured, including village chief Thangjahao Haokip, who sustained critical injuries, according to the deputy chief minister. The village authority reported five injuries in the incident.
Moreover, residents reportedly faced difficulties retrieving the victim’s body during the night because continued gunfire and security concerns prevented them from reaching the location safely. The body was recovered on Sunday morning.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about civilian safety in Kamjong district. It has also intensified demands for an independent investigation into the shooting and other reported attacks in the area.
Kuki bodies demand action over Manipur Chassad violence
The Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations in Ukhrul has demanded an impartial investigation into the shooting. It has also called for the deployment of neutral central security forces to protect civilians.
The committee announced the NH-202 shutdown to protest the killing, the circumstances surrounding the firing and what it described as inadequate security arrangements. It warned that further agitation could follow if authorities failed to address its demands.
Additionally, the organisation has sought an inquiry into allegations concerning the conduct of security personnel near Chassad Police Station. According to the committee’s account, two personnel questioned men repairing electricity lines shortly before the gunfire began.
The committee alleged that shots were fired from a bunker near the police station. However, these claims require independent verification, and the available reports do not establish who fired the shots.
The organisation has urged investigators to determine who opened fire, whether any orders were issued and whether officials failed to prevent the violence.
Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen seeks accountability
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the attack and called for those responsible to face justice. She expressed concern over the death, injuries to residents and reports of houses being burned.
Kipgen also raised concerns about the impact of the violence on families, particularly children and residents forced to leave their homes. She offered condolences to the bereaved family and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Furthermore, the deputy chief minister said she had directed the district administration, state police and security forces to maintain round-the-clock vigilance. She stressed the need to protect civilians and their property while ensuring accountability.
She also appealed to community leaders, civil society organisations and residents to exercise restraint. Avoiding rumours and inflammatory statements, she said, would help prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, the Manipur government issued a transfer order appointing IPS officer Jay Barange as Superintendent of Police of Kamjong district, replacing Tholu Rocky, MPS, who had held the charge.
Manipur Chassad violence raises security concerns
The Chassad Village Authority has sought the intervention of the Union Home Ministry, the Manipur government and senior security officials. It has demanded adequate deployment of central forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force and Assam Rifles.
The authority has also requested a time-bound, independent investigation into incidents reported since October 9. These include earlier killings and allegations involving security personnel and armed groups.
However, allegations of collusion, security failures and militant involvement remain unverified. Investigators must establish the facts before responsibility can be assigned to any individual or organisation.
The village authority has also questioned existing security arrangements and called for equal protection under the law. Its demands reflect growing concern among residents over repeated incidents of violence.
NH-202 shutdown puts pressure on Manipur authorities
The announced shutdown is expected to put further pressure on the state administration to address security concerns in the region. NH-202 connects areas of Manipur, including the Imphal-Ukhrul route, making disruptions potentially significant for commuters and local transport.
The protest comes amid heightened tensions in Kamjong and neighbouring Ukhrul district following several reported attacks on civilians. Kuki civil society organisations say stronger protection and an independent inquiry are necessary to restore confidence.
Ultimately, the immediate challenge for authorities is to establish the circumstances of the Chassad shooting, protect vulnerable residents and prevent further violence. A credible investigation and effective security measures will be essential to address the demands for justice while reducing the risk of further tensions.