Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights Condemn Continued Arbitrary Arrests, Calls for Immediate Justice

The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) has issued a powerful statement condemning what it describes as “continued arbitrary arrests and systemic injustice” against members of the Kuki community. In a public release issued yesterday, the organisation expressed outrage over the recent arrest of two Kuki men by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), calling the move a blatant violation of legal norms and a reflection of institutional bias.

According to KWOHR, the arrests of Thangneo Kipgen alias Hentinthang from Churachandpur and Kamginthang Gangte from Moreh on June 6 were made under “unfounded allegations” and “questionable circumstances,” bypassing proper legal procedures. The organisation asserts that these incidents are part of a broader pattern of “collective punishment and ethnic profiling” by state forces.

Just days earlier, on May 31, KWOHR and various district-level women’s organisations held a mass sit-in protest across Lamka, Kangpokpi, Tengnoupal, and other districts. They simultaneously submitted a formal representation to the Union Home Minister demanding an end to what they claim is the targeted persecution of the Kuki people by central agencies.

“Despite our peaceful protests and appeal for justice, the state has chosen to escalate its actions,” the statement reads. “This is not just a legal issue—it’s a moral crisis. How long will the voices of Kuki women and our peaceful demands be ignored?”

The organisation is calling for the immediate release of all individuals allegedly detained without due process, an independent judicial inquiry into the pattern of arrests and harassment and protection of constitutional rights for all citizens, irrespective of ethnic background.

KWOHR General Secretary Kimneihoi Lhungdim strongly criticized the NIA, warning that any further unjustified actions would face “strong resistance” from the community.

“In a constitutional democracy, state agencies must be held accountable. The lives and dignity of our people cannot be treated as collateral,” Lhungdim said, urging civil society and concerned citizens across India to stand in solidarity with the Kuki people.