Chassad/Kamjong: A Kuki woman identified as Hatneikim Haokip has been reported killed in the Phaikoh and Molvailup area of Kamjong district, Manipur, following an alleged ambush by NSCN-IM and ZUF groups. The incident has sent shockwaves across the Kuki community and raised fresh concerns over the safety of Kuki civilians in the hill areas amid continuing violence. Community sources alleged that NSCN-IM and ZUF-K militants have killed over 30 Kuki civilians, including two pregnant women and three pastors, this year alone.
According to local reports, Hatneikim Haokip was found dead in a deeply disturbing condition. Sources alleged that her body was found naked and covered in blood with severe injuries. The nature of the discovery has led to serious allegations of sexual violence and brutal killing. However, the exact nature of injuries, whether sexual assault occurred, and the precise cause of death must be established only through proper forensic examination, post-mortem report and official investigation.
Family members and community organisations have accused NSCN-IM and ZUF cadres, who are under ceasefire and SoO with the Government of India, of being involved in the ambush and killing. The allegation is extremely serious and demands a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation. Responsibility cannot be legally fixed without scientific evidence, but if the allegations are proven, those found guilty must be brought to justice without any political protection.
The killing has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Kuki women and civilians in the interior hill villages. Since the conflict in the hills began, several Kuki women have reportedly been killed in violent attacks allegedly involving NSCN-IM and ZUF groups. Community leaders have also pointed out that no Naga woman has been reported killed in the same conflict so far, a claim that requires independent verification but indicates a pattern that needs to be examined by human rights monitors and investigative agencies.
Civil society bodies have urged authorities to treat the case with utmost seriousness. They have demanded that the body be examined by a team of independent forensic experts, that all evidence be preserved, that witnesses be protected, and that the investigation be monitored by the National Commission for Women and other relevant bodies to ensure transparency and credibility.
The incident has also intensified demands for enhanced security for Kuki villages in Kamjong and adjoining areas, which have remained exposed to armed attacks. Local villagers have said they live in constant fear and that civilian movement has become extremely unsafe due to repeated ambushes and threats from armed groups operating in the region.
Justice for Hatneikim Haokip must not be delayed. The brutal nature of the alleged crime has deeply hurt the sentiments of the community and any attempt to delay the investigation or shield the perpetrators will further erode public trust in the rule of law. An impartial probe, swift action against those found responsible, and concrete steps to protect civilian lives are urgently needed to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
