Vaiphei Bodies Condemn Burning of Kharam Vaiphei Village, Demand Probe into Security Forces' Inaction

The Vaiphei Peoples' Council (VPC) General Headquarters and the Vaiphei Women Association (VWA) General Headquarters have strongly condemned the burning of Kharam Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district, allegedly carried out by the ZUF (Kamson) group on May 30.

In separate statements, the two organizations expressed deep anguish over the incident, describing it as an attack on innocent civilians and a grave violation of humanity, peace, and communal harmony. They alleged that the village was set ablaze at around 2:00 PM, resulting in the destruction of homes and the displacement of residents.

The VPC stated that targeting civilian homes and families who have no involvement in armed conflicts is unacceptable and only serves to deepen mistrust and suffering among communities. Reaffirming the Vaiphei community's commitment to dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence, the council said its people have consistently exercised patience and restraint despite repeated provocations.

However, the council warned that continued attacks on Vaiphei villages, threats to ancestral lands, and attempts to instill fear among the people could not be ignored indefinitely. It asserted that the community would continue to safeguard its people, rights, and heritage.

The council also raised serious concerns over the alleged inaction of security personnel deployed in the area during the incident. It alleged that CRPF personnel present at the scene failed to intervene while the village was being burned. Calling it a "failure of will" rather than a failure of intelligence, the VPC demanded that both the Government of Manipur and the Ministry of Home Affairs investigate not only the perpetrators but also the conduct of security forces on duty.

"Justice must be swift, visible, and uncompromising," the council stated, adding that the Kharam Vaiphei incident should not be allowed to fade into obscurity.

Meanwhile, the Vaiphei Women Association (VWA) General Headquarters also strongly condemned what it described as the "barbaric acts" of the ZUF (Kamson) group. The association alleged that the village was burned in the presence of numerous security personnel and criticized what it termed negligence on the part of both state and central forces.

The VWA reiterated its commitment to peace, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence among communities but emphasized that repeated attacks on villages and threats to ancestral lands could not be tolerated. The association called on the Government of Manipur and the Ministry of Home Affairs to immediately investigate the incident, examine the alleged negligence of security forces, and take necessary measures to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.

Both organizations urged authorities to ensure accountability and deliver justice to the affected villagers.