Naga Organisations Rally in Ukhrul, Submit Memorandum Seeking Political Solution to Manipur Crisis
Thousands of members of Naga civil society organisations took part in a massive rally in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Thursday, demanding that the Centre take immediate steps to resolve the state’s prolonged political crisis and address what they described as growing security concerns in Naga-inhabited areas.
The rally was organised by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the Tangkhul Frontal Organisation under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC). Protesters assembled at Dungrei Junction and Mission Ground before marching to the Ukhrul Headquarters Ground, where a public meeting was held.
Normal life in the district was affected during the demonstration, with shops, private institutions and public transport services remaining largely shut. Participants carried placards highlighting issues related to the ongoing conflict, militarisation and the functioning of armed groups in the state.
During the gathering, speakers called for a permanent political resolution to the Manipur crisis, the withdrawal of Assam Rifles from Naga-inhabited areas and greater intervention by the central government. Protesters also raised concerns over the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups and demanded a review of the arrangement.
Addressing the rally, Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) president Ramreichan Keishing alleged that Naga communities had been adversely affected by the ongoing conflict and urged New Delhi to intervene to restore peace and stability. He further questioned the role of Assam Rifles in the conflict and called for the force’s withdrawal from Naga areas.
A student representative speaking at the event highlighted the impact of the prolonged unrest on education, employment opportunities and the future prospects of young people in the state.
A similar protest programme was also organised in neighbouring Kamjong district.
Following the rally, representatives of several Naga organisations submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah through the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul district.
In the memorandum, the organisations urged the Centre to recognise the Manipur crisis as a historical issue linked to political and demographic concerns and to initiate a permanent political solution. The document raised concerns about the impact of the conflict on Naga communities and called for measures to restore peace and security in the state.
The memorandum also contained a charter of demands, including a political settlement to the ongoing crisis, withdrawal of Assam Rifles from Naga areas, review of the SoO arrangement, protection of Naga ancestral territories and measures to address issues relating to displacement, security and governance.
The submission of the memorandum marks the latest intervention by Naga civil society groups amid continuing unrest and political uncertainty in Manipur.