Committee on Tribal Unity cites killing of 3 pastors, 12 villagers; demands impartial security conduct and independent probe, exempts medical services from shutdown starting 4 PM Sunday
By Lulun Haokip, Kukiland Express
Kanggui, June 21, 2026: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, has imposed an indefinite emergency bandh along National Highway-2 and National Highway-37, effective from 4:00 PM on Sunday, 21 June 2026, citing alleged “partial and selective” security operations in the Leimakhong–Kangchup area.
In a press release issued from its administrative office at Kangpokpi DHQ, CoTU expressed “strongest condemnation” of what it called partisan conduct by security forces amid ongoing tensions involving Kuki and Kaccha Naga communities. The tribal body said reports from affected people indicate security actions have “failed to ensure equal protection and impartial enforcement of law and order.”
“Any action or omission that creates an impression of bias only aggravates the prevailing crisis and erodes public confidence in institutions entrusted with maintaining peace and security,” the statement read.
Killing of pastors, villagers cited
CoTU highlighted the recent killing of three Christian pastors and twelve Kuki villagers, incidents it said have caused “widespread grief, fear, and outrage among the Kuki people.” The committee also flagged reports of attacks on villages, destruction of homes, and displacement of civilians. It demanded that all perpetrators “be identified and brought to justice through a transparent and time-bound process.”
Five-point demand to Centre
Calling the security situation “deteriorating,” CoTU urged the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Home Affairs, to intervene immediately. It listed five demands:
- Impartial and professional conduct of all security operations
- Adequate protection of vulnerable villages and civilian populations
- Independent investigation into the killings of the three pastors and twelve villagers
- Immediate measures to prevent further attacks, arson, and displacement
- Accountability for any lapses or acts of bias by security personnel
Bandh details
The emergency bandh applies to NH-2 and NH-37 and will continue “until further notice.” CoTU said medical emergencies, ambulances, and humanitarian relief activities are exempted. It appealed to the public to maintain “peace, discipline, and restraint” during the protest.
“The primary responsibility of the security forces and the Government is to safeguard every citizen without discrimination,” CoTU asserted, adding that it remains committed to protecting the rights, security, and dignity of the Kuki people.
The press release was issued by the Media Cell, Committee on Tribal Unity, Kangpokpi, Manipur, and carried the tagline “Justice, Security, and Equal Protection for All.”
