Manipur: Two Kuki-Zo women killed in Tamenglong shooting

Two women from the Kuki-Zo community, identified as 60-year-old Phalneichong Sitlhou and 28-year-old Kimjalhing, were shot dead by unidentified armed attackers in Manipur’s Tamenglong district on Tuesday.

The incident occurred around 3:30 pm in Muktakhan village while the victims were engaged in agricultural activities. Kuki organizations, including the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), have alleged that the killings were carried out by cadres belonging to the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF-K).

The KZC stated that these killings represent an “unacceptable and alarming pattern” of attacks intended to terrorize and displace Kuki-Zo communities. In response, the council has resolved that no Kuki-Zo person killed by Naga armed groups in Manipur will be buried until further notice, opting instead to preserve remains in cold storage. Both organizations have called on the Manipur and central governments to take immediate action to protect civilians and hold the perpetrators accountable.