Kuki Rights Body Slams UNC, TNL Over 'Misleading Claims' on Ukhrul Killings, Appeals For Restraint, Impartial NIA Probe

The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) vehemently blasted the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), accusing them of “misleading the entire Naga community” by prematurely blaming the Kuki community for the recent killing of two Tangkhul civilians, even as the case remains under investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

In a sharply worded statement, KOHUR termed the allegations as “wholly unfounded, prejudicial and irresponsible,” warning that such assertions risk derailing an ongoing central probe and fuelling communal tensions in the already volatile state.

The two civilians were killed in an ambush between Tangkhul villages on April 17, 2026. KOHUR said assigning blame before the conclusion of a formal investigation “not only prejudices due process but also inflames passions at a time when restraint is most needed.”

Drawing a contrast, the organisation cited the March 11 killing of two Kuki men — identified as Thengin Baite and Kamgoumang Khongsai — allegedly by Tangkhul elements, stating that the Kuki community had demonstrated “exceptional restraint” despite provocation.

According to KOHUR, the Kuki community had:

1). Released over 20 civilians taken into custody in the aftermath of the incident at the government’s request;

2). Accepted the transfer of the case to the NIA; and

3). Conducted the last rites of the victims peacefully, placing faith in institutional justice mechanisms.

“This measured and responsible conduct, even in grief, stands as a benchmark in a deeply polarised environment,” the statement said.

KOHUR, however, criticised the ongoing three-day shutdown call issued from April 20 to 23, alleging that statements and mobilisation efforts by UNC and TNL were “instigating innocent civilians towards communal confrontation” and undermining the investigative process.

“As long as the NIA probe is underway, any attempt to fix blame or mobilise public agitation serves only to escalate hostility and obstruct justice,” it added.

Positioning itself as a human rights body committed to all communities, KOHUR appealed to “right-thinking members” of the Naga community to resist what it described as “communal narratives driven by vested interests,” and urged people across communities — including Naga and Kuki-Zo groups — to maintain calm.

The organisation also called on the NIA to carry out a “thorough, impartial and professional investigation” and ensure that those responsible are identified and arrested without bias.

“Justice, not blame, is what the grieving families on both sides deserve,” KOHUR said, adding that it remains ready to cooperate with constitutional authorities to ensure accountability and peace.