The Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur, has condemned the alleged arson attack on Tokpa Naga village in Kangpokpi district, claiming that armed miscreants set fire to around 10 houses and a church on Tuesday night, August 11.
In a press release, the council said the incident took place at around 9.30 pm at Tokpa Naga village in the Champai area of Kangpokpi district. It alleged that multiple armed men entered the village and deliberately targeted civilian residences and a place of worship.
Describing the incident as a “grave and reprehensible act of violence”, the council expressed concern over reports that security personnel were stationed only a few metres from the affected area, despite the locality being identified as a sensitive red-zone area.
The organisation questioned the preparedness and accountability of the security forces, alleging that their failure to prevent or intervene in the incident raised serious concerns over possible negligence and dereliction of duty.
The Liangmai Naga Council demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible and called for a swift, impartial and time-bound investigation into the attack.
It also sought an inquiry into the conduct of security personnel deployed near the site and urged the authorities to immediately strengthen security arrangements to protect civilians in the area.
The council further demanded adequate relief, rehabilitation and compensation for families whose homes and properties were allegedly destroyed in the incident.
Urging the government and security agencies to act promptly, the council warned against further attacks on tribal communities and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
The allegations made by the council could not be independently verified.
