Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho has urged fellow Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen to help stop the alleged attacks linked to the recent Naga civilian killings, as tensions continue to rise in the state.
Dikho made the appeal on Saturday, October 17, while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a conclave on climate-resilient springsheds in Imphal.
Naga civilian killings fuel fresh political pressure
Dikho’s remarks came amid renewed concern over attacks on Naga civilians in Manipur’s hill districts. Reports said at least seven Naga civilians, including a Nepali national, were killed in ambushes across Kamjong.
The incidents have deepened mistrust between communities already affected by prolonged ethnic tensions.
He said the government and the public wanted her to discharge her responsibilities from Imphal. He added that she should also use her influence to help end violence against Naga civilians.
Naga civilian killings raise questions over leadership
The latest remarks also reflect a widening political dispute within Manipur’s government. Naga legislators have previously called for action against Kipgen, alleging that her husband, Thangboi Kipgen, has links to armed groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
Thangboi Kipgen has been identified in reports as being associated with the Kuki National Front (President), or KNF-P. The group is among the Kuki armed organisations covered by the SoO framework, which sets out arrangements between armed groups and the government.
Earlier killings remain at the centre of the dispute
The political tension also follows the abduction and killing of six Naga civilians from Leilon Vaiphei in Kangpokpi district in May. Naga legislators have accused armed groups linked to the SoO arrangement of involvement in that case and have demanded action against those they consider responsible.
In late August, Naga legislators wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking intervention over attacks on members of their community. Their demands included action against leaders they accused of involvement and a review of the SoO agreement with Kuki armed groups.
The accusations have added to friction between the two deputy chief ministers. In September, Kipgen rejected allegations linking her and her husband to the Naga-Kuki clashes, describing the claims as unverified and warning that they could further damage trust between communities.
Naga civilian killings prompt calls for intervention
Dikho’s latest comments followed a joint statement by Kuki civil society organisations urging Kipgen to travel to Imphal and regularly perform her official duties from the state capital. His response linked that demand to the wider security crisis, urging her to address the violence as well.
The appeal places pressure on political leaders to respond to the concerns of affected communities while avoiding statements that could intensify hostility.
Naga civilian killings keep peace efforts in focus
The latest deaths and allegations have renewed concerns about civilian safety across Manipur’s hill districts. For residents, the immediate priority is protection from further attacks and reliable information about the incidents.
Meanwhile, political leaders face growing pressure to show that public office can help reduce tensions rather than deepen divisions. Any lasting response will require credible investigations, accountability under the law and communication between communities.
Dikho’s appeal to Kipgen has become another flashpoint in the debate over responsibility and leadership. Whether it leads to concrete steps remains unclear. For now, the central challenge is to prevent further loss of life and ensure that allegations are tested through a fair process.