KOHUR Demands Handover of NSCN-IM, ZUF-K Cadres Over Killing of Church Leaders

The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) has strongly condemned the killing of three prominent church leaders in Kangpokpi district and demanded the immediate handover of all cadres allegedly involved in the ambush.

In a press release issued on Friday, KOHUR described the May 13 ambush between Kotzim and Kotlen villages as a “barbaric” and “premeditated act of terrorism” that claimed the lives of Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, President of the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI) and former General Secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention; Pastor Kaigoulun Lhouvum, TBAI Secretary for Finance, Youth and Music; and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou, TBAI Superintendent Pastor. Several other church leaders were also grievously injured in the attack.

According to KOHUR, the victims were returning from the 1st United Baptist Convention Assembly held at the GBA Centre Church in Chiengkonpang, Lamka, after participating in a religious gathering focused on fellowship and faith.

The organisation stated that Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou had recently coordinated with Naga Christian leaders in efforts to promote peace between Kuki and Tangkhul-Naga communities in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts. It said he had played a key role in peace consultations convened under the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum.

KOHUR alleged that the ambush “bears every hallmark of a premeditated act of terrorism” carried out by cadres of the NSCN-IM in collusion with the ZUF-K (Kamson) faction. It rejected denials issued by the groups, stating that “the bullets, the terrain, the operational footprint and the political motive all point in one direction.

The organisation demanded that the NSCN-IM and ZUF-K immediately identify and hand over all cadres, commanders and conspirators involved in the attack to the authorities for legal action.

KOHUR also urged apex Naga bodies, including the United Naga Council, the Naga Legislature Forum, and Tangkhul and Zeliangrong civil society organisations, to openly condemn the killings and distance themselves from those responsible.

Further, the organisation called on the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to treat the incident as a serious violation of the ceasefire agreement with the NSCN-IM and to take action against those involved “without fear or favour.”

It also sought justice for the bereaved families and demanded compensation, protection and medical support for the injured and affected families.

Appealing for peace and reconciliation, KOHUR urged Manipur Naga leaders to rise above the influence of armed groups and work towards truth, accountability and harmony between the two communities.