SAHILCA calls allegations against Lalboi Vaiphei politically motivated; demands release of 14 Kuki hostages, impartial inquiry into May 13 murders
Edited by: Kimbawinu Vaiphei, Kukiland Express Desk
Kanggui: May 27, 2026
The Sadar Hills Chiefs Association (SAHILCA), a Kuki chiefs’ body, on Monday rejected what it called a “baseless chargesheet” against Leilon Vaiphei Village Chief Lalboi Vaiphei, terming the allegations “false and politically motivated.” The body demanded an impartial investigation into the May 13, 2026 killing of three church leaders and the continued captivity of 14 Kuki hostages.
In its statement, SAHILCA said certain groups were attempting to malign the image of the village chief and residents of Leilon Vaiphei without credible evidence. It warned that such unverified claims risk aggravating tensions in Manipur, which has faced ethnic unrest since May 2023.
The association specifically rejected accusations linked to an alleged abduction case raised by the Naga Peoples’ Union (NPU). SAHILCA said the charges were intended to create communal misunderstanding and should not be used to target innocent individuals and villages through propaganda.
SAHILCA pressed for a fair, transparent and independent probe into the killing of the three church leaders. It also sought investigation into its own allegations concerning D Adam Liangmei, claiming some individuals from Konsakhul village allegedly supported armed militants in a September 12, 2023 ambush that left three persons dead.
The chiefs’ body further alleged that Liangmei had prior knowledge of the May 13 murders, calling it a serious matter that warrants immediate inquiry by competent authorities.
On the hostage issue, SAHILCA appealed for the immediate and safe release of 14 Kuki individuals held in captivity. It stressed that civilians must not become victims of political or communal conflict and urged authorities to ensure due process is followed.
The association said investigations must not be influenced by politically motivated narratives or communal rhetoric. It urged all sides to exercise restraint and allow verified facts and the rule of law to guide action on sensitive issues linked to the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
