Bodies flay killing of ZUF cadre; VV injured
Source: Chronicle News Service / NNN

Imphal/Senapati, April 12 2024: United Naga Council (UNC) has strongly condemned the killing of ZUF cadre identified as Alur Thoitak Chiru on April 11 at Chuangphun village, Kangpokpi district by "unknown armed outfit" .

In a statement issued Saturday, UNC said that perpetration of violent acts and killings only heighten collective anguish and misery.

It further said that justification of the same acts whatsoever will only impede "our progress toward lasting peace and justice in our land".

Many precious lives were sacrificed while resisting "our oppressors, and had we exercised patience and compassion from within, many victims such Alur Thoitak would have been spared," UNC added.

While strongly condemning the killing of Thoitak, UNC asserted that it will not tolerate such acts of cowardice and brutality in our land, and urged all democratic voice and peace loving people of the land to work and strive for a violence free society.

ZUF joint secretary Alur Seikho was attacked and killed by unidentified assailants on Friday.

Alur Seikho, who served as the War Victims secretary and held an additional post in minority affairs, was known for his unwavering commitment to the cause and his exemplary leadership within the organisation, according to a statement of ZUF.

The Front condemned the cowardly act and attributed the attack to NSCN-IM.

They asserted that Alur Seikho was targeted without any political justification, but rather out of bitter tribal animosity, while vowing that justice will be served for this heinous crime against humanity.

Expressing profound grief, the Central Executive Council and all members of ZUF extended their deepest condolences to Alur Seikho's family and pledged to honour his memory by continuing the fight for Zeliangrong Homeland.

ZUF affirmed its commitment to support Alur Seikho's family, village, and tribe during this difficult time.

Zeliangrong organisations and civil society groups also strongly condemned acts of intimidation and violence during election campaign in Tamenglong and Noney districts, as well as the killing of ZUF leader Alur Sekho.

In a joint statement issued by Zeliangrong Baudi and Zeliangrong Youth Front, the groups expressed deep con cern over the intimidation faced by independent candidate Dr Alyson Abonmai during his campaign.

They emphasised the importance of allowing the democratic process to proceed unhindered and urged all responsible parties to respect the voice of the people.

Similarly, Liangmai Katinah Ruangdi Delhi condemned the disruption of Dr Alyson Abonmai's election campaign in Tamenglong Bazaar, calling it an unwarranted act that undermines democracy.

Meanwhile, All Zeliangrong Students' Union (AMN) condemned the killing of ZUF leader Alur Sekho by NSCN (IM), stating that such actions create an unsafe environment in the Zeliangrong area.

They also voiced their condemnation of public nuisance and disruptions to the election campaign, calling for a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

Further, joint statement of Zeliangrong Students' Union Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, Shillong.

Guwahati, and Chennai condemned disruption caused to Dr Alyson Abonmai's election campaign by certain miscreants as Liangmai Ruangdi Delhi NCR appealed for free and fair elections.

On the other-hand, fresh attacks carried out by armed Kuki militants on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday left a Meetei village volunteer (VV) injured.

According to reports, well-armed Kuki militants from Tongthang and Penyang villages in Tengnoupal district attacked the Meetei villagers in Heirok with the latter retaliating and chasing the perpetrators till Tonglhang and Penyang villages which are under Machi sub-division.

The exchange of fire which started from around 1 am Friday continued for some hours.

During-the gun battle a village volunteer sustained bullet injuries.

The report further informed that the Meetei village volunteers were on alert after receiving information that armed Kujki militants have descended from Tonglhang and Penyang villages towards Heirok.

Subsequent to report of the gun battle, Thoubal and Tengnoupal police team in addition to personnel of 33 and 3 AR from Thoubal and Tengnoupal rushed to the spot.

It is also suspected that some of the Kuki militants might be injured in the gun fight.

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