Edited by: St. Ginth Haokip, Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi: May 19, 2026
The Kuki Inpi USA, Inc., apex body of the Kuki tribes, has issued an official communication strongly condemning what it called a heinous and premeditated attack on May 13, 2026, in Kangpokpi District, Manipur. The statement, released for immediate release under Ref. No.: 021, said the assault was allegedly executed by suspected NSCN (IM) and ZUF-Kamson militants.
According to the Kuki Inpi USA, the attack resulted in the assassination of three revered Kuki church leaders: Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigoulen Lhouvum, and Rev. Paogoulen Sitlhou. Five others were left critically injured in the incident.
The organization described the assault as a brutal act of violence targeting unarmed religious leaders. It called the incident a profound violation of human rights, an assault on religious freedom, and a direct threat to peace and regional stability. The statement noted that the atrocity has sent shockwaves through the global Kuki diaspora and deeply wounded peace-loving communities worldwide.
Kuki Inpi USA said it mourns the irreparable loss of the three pastors, calling them devoted servants of God who dedicated their lives to faith, community service, and spiritual leadership. It added that their legacy of unwavering commitment to humanity will forever be honored and remembered.
Under the section “Urgent Demands for Government Action,” Kuki Inpi USA said it refuses to stand by in the face of ongoing lawlessness and targeted violence. It issued three directives to relevant authorities:
- Immediate Release of Hostages: The group demanded the immediate, unconditional, and safe release of the 14 innocent Kuki villagers who were forcefully abducted by armed militants in Senapati District.
- Decisive Government Intervention: It urgently called upon the Government of India and the state authorities of Manipur to deploy all necessary resources to secure the hostages and restore order.
- Accountability and Justice: The statement said tribal and religious leaders must not be targeted with impunity. It demanded a swift, transparent investigation to bring the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice.
The Kuki Inpi USA said it stands in unwavering solidarity with the bereaved families and the entire Kuki community during this time of profound grief. It appealed to the international community, human rights organizations, and global leaders to acknowledge and condemn what it described as systematic atrocities against the Kuki people.
