The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has called for the immediate release of four villagers from Sharkaphung (Sikibung) village in Manipur, alleging that they were illegally detained during a joint security operation and warning of serious civil unrest if they are not released within 24 hours.
In a press communiqué issued on July 14, the TNL said the four villagers were apprehended during combing operations conducted by a joint team comprising the Police, Assam Rifles, Punjab Regiment, Madras Regiment and Bihar Regiment in TM Kason, Sharkaphung and Lungphu villages of Ukhrul district.
According to the organisation, the detained individuals have been identified as Wungphayo Kasar (24), Ningleum (29), Makamlunglung (24) and Vareiyo Lungleng (56). The TNL alleged that the four were taken into custody between 8 am and 9 am on July 14 and claimed that their whereabouts remain unknown.
The organisation accused the security forces of carrying out what it described as oppressive actions against civilians in Tangkhul-inhabited areas, while alleging that Kuki militant groups operating in the region have largely remained unaffected by similar operations.
The TNL further claimed that the detentions have intensified resentment within the Tangkhul community and cautioned that the continued custody of the four villagers could lead to widespread civil unrest directed against the state government.
Urging the authorities to act immediately, the organisation demanded the release of the detained villagers within 24 hours, stating that any delay could further escalate tensions in the region.
At the time of filing this report, neither the security agencies nor the Manipur government had issued an official response to the allegations made by the Tangkhul Naga Long.
