Kanggui, April 22, 2026: The Hengbung Village Authority has strongly condemned an alleged assault on a woman vendor by United Naga Council (UNC) volunteers during a bandh enforcement in Hengbung village, Kangpokpi district.
According to the Village Authority, the incident occurred on April 21 when UNC volunteers entered the village to enforce a shutdown and forcibly dragged a Kuki woman vendor out of her shop. The Authority described the act as “violent, demeaning, and a direct affront to Kuki customs.”
Village leaders warned that such actions could further strain already fragile inter-community relations in the region.
The Authority referred to the UNC’s April 19 announcement from Tahamzam (Senapati Headquarters), which called for a total shutdown in Naga-inhabited areas and suspension of social and economic ties with the Kuki community.
While acknowledging the UNC’s right to enforce decisions within its jurisdiction, the Authority stated that extending such enforcement into Kuki villages without consent is “wholly unacceptable.”
Violation of Kuki Customary Law
The Village Authority emphasized that the alleged assault constitutes a serious violation of Kuki customary law, which provides the highest protection to women and safeguards private property within village boundaries.
“No external organisation has the authority to enter a Kuki village and subject residents to intimidation or physical assault,” the statement said.
Demand for Customary Punishment and Accountability
Demanding immediate action, the Hengbung Village Authority urged UNC leadership to take strict disciplinary measures against those involved and ensure punishment under Kuki customary law.
The Authority stressed that verbal assurances alone would not be sufficient and that accountability must be enforced.
Call for Peace and Respect
The Authority reiterated that respect for village jurisdictions is essential for peaceful coexistence and called on all civil bodies to avoid coercive actions that endanger civilians.
“Lasting peace can only be achieved through respect for law, custom, and the dignity of all communities,” the statement added.
Edited by: Kimbawinu Vaiphei
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