United Kuki National Army calls 16 June killing by central forces a violation of Articles 21 and 14; condemns alleged undressing of body and dressing in militant attire, demands independent inquiry
By: Nengcha Haokip, Kukiland Media
Songpi, June 17, 2026: The United Kuki National Army (UKNA) has strongly condemned the reported killing of Lenminsang Haokip at Songkong village under Henglep Sub-Division, Churachandpur, by central security forces on 16 June 2026. In a press statement issued from its General Headquarters on 17 June, UKNA said the incident was disturbing and warranted an impartial investigation to establish the truth. The group clarified that Lenminsang was never a member of, nor in any way associated with, the United Kuki National Army, countering any potential claims that the deceased was part of an underground outfit.
UKNA expressed alarm over ground reports suggesting that after the killing, security personnel allegedly undressed the deceased and dressed him in attire associated with an underground group. The statement said that if true, such actions are not only unbecoming of professional forces entrusted with the protection of civilians but also strike at the spirit of justice and accountability enshrined in the Constitution of India. The group argued that tampering with a body to imply militant links undermines due process and violates the dignity of the dead.
Citing constitutional provisions, UKNA said the incident raises serious concerns regarding the violation of Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, and Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. The statement asserted that every citizen, irrespective of ethnicity, region, or political background, is entitled to these protections. It added that extrajudicial actions by state forces erode faith in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
The group said the killing highlights how Kuki communities have become soft targets despite consistent demands for a political solution within the Union of India. According to UKNA, while groups advocating secessionist agendas continue to operate in the region, Kuki civilians are too often subjected to disproportionate security actions. The statement warned that such an approach undermines democratic values and weakens public confidence in constitutional mechanisms meant to safeguard all citizens equally.
Press statement issued by the United Kuki National Army on 17 June 2026, condemning the killing of civilian Lenminsang Haokip in Henglep and demanding an independent inquiry.
Extending its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, UKNA called for a fair, transparent, and independent inquiry to establish the facts and ensure accountability. The group said only an impartial probe can determine the circumstances of the 16 June operation near Songkong and address the allegations of evidence tampering. It urged authorities to uphold legal norms during the investigation and ensure that procedures laid down for deaths in security operations are followed.
The press statement, issued by the Office of the United Kuki National Army, reiterated that Lenminsang was a civilian and that his killing must not be misrepresented. UKNA said the case tests whether constitutional guarantees apply uniformly across communities in Manipur. As of Tuesday evening, central security forces had not issued a detailed response to the specific allegations raised by UKNA regarding the conduct of personnel after the killing.
