The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has demanded the immediate release of four villagers detained during a joint security operation in Manipur’s Ukhrul district. In a statement issued on July 14, the organisation alleged that security forces detained the villagers from Sharkaphung (Sikibung) village during combing operations in the TM Kason, Sharkaphung, and Lungphu areas.
TNL claimed the villagers’ whereabouts remain unknown and warned that their continued detention could trigger civil unrest. As of the filing of the report, the Manipur government and security agencies had not issued an official response.
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Key Facts
- State: Manipur
- District: Ukhrul
- Organisation: Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL)
- Issue: Demand for release of four detained villagers
- Date of Statement: July 14
- Operation: Joint security combing operation
- Areas Covered: TM Kason, Sharkaphung (Sikibung), and Lungphu villages
TNL Seeks Immediate Release of Villagers
The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has called for the immediate release of four villagers detained during a joint security operation in Ukhrul district, Manipur.
In a press communiqué issued on July 14, the organisation alleged that security personnel detained the villagers during combing operations conducted in TM Kason, Sharkaphung (Sikibung), and Lungphu villages.
Details of the Detention
According to TNL, the detained individuals are Wungphayo Kasar (24), Ningleum (29), Makamlunglung (24), and Vareiyo Lungleng (56).
The organisation claimed that security personnel took them into custody between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. on July 14. It further alleged that the whereabouts of the four villagers remain unknown.
Allegations Against Security Forces
TNL alleged that a joint team comprising the Police, Assam Rifles, Punjab Regiment, Madras Regiment, and Bihar Regiment carried out the operation.
The organisation also accused security forces of targeting innocent civilians in Tangkhul-inhabited areas. In addition, it claimed that armed Kuki militant groups operating in the region have largely remained outside the scope of such operations. These allegations have not been independently verified.
Warning of Civil Unrest
The organisation stated that the detentions have increased resentment among members of the Tangkhul community.
It urged the authorities to release the four villagers within 24 hours. According to TNL, any further delay could escalate tensions and lead to civil unrest in the region.
No Official Response Yet
At the time of filing this report, neither the Manipur government nor the security agencies had issued an official statement regarding the allegations or the reported detentions.
Further updates are expected after authorities respond to the claims made by the organisation.
Question & Answer
Q: What happened in Ukhrul district?
A: TNL alleged that four villagers were detained during a joint security operation and demanded their immediate release.
Q: Who issued the demand?
A: The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL).
Q: When were the villagers reportedly detained?
A: TNL claimed they were detained on July 14 between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Q: Which areas did the security operation cover?
A: TM Kason, Sharkaphung (Sikibung), and Lungphu villages in Ukhrul district.
Q: Has the government responded?
A: No official response had been issued by the Manipur government or security agencies when this report was filed.
Location Context
Ukhrul district lies in northeastern Manipur and is predominantly inhabited by the Tangkhul Naga community. The district has witnessed periodic security operations due to the state’s complex law-and-order situation, making developments in the area significant for Northeast India.
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