Leilon Vaiphei chief being shielded : UNC
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, September 07 2026: While denouncing "unreasonable and inordinate delay" in the investigation into the infamous Leilon Vaiphei massacre of six Liangmai Naga men, the United Naga Council (UNC) has accused the Chief Minister and Home Minister of shielding "prime accused" persons, Lalboi Vaiphei, chief of Leilon Vaiphei village and a State police personnel, identified as Thanggilien Vaiphei, allegedly involved in the crime.

Even before the investigation is concluded, the CM and the Home Minister, on the floor of the State Assembly, have given a clean chit to the accused persons, alleged the UNC, also accusing the Government of trying to shield Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen.

The testimonies of the surviving victims and statements of the wives of the deceased men are on record.

The world knows that the abduction on May 13 and the subsequent killing of the six Naga men at the Leilon Vaiphei village was "orchestrated" by the Leilon Vaiphei villagers and Kuki militants, the KNF-P, which is headed by the spouse of Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen.

This evidence cannot be buried by political whim and power, UNC said.

"Instead of making sincere efforts to address the charter of demands submitted by the United Naga Council, the head of the State has chosen to shield the perpetrators from prosecution, thereby hindering the delivery of justice to the victims and the public," it said.

The bodies of the 6 Naga men are still lying in the mortuary.

Their families are waiting to perform the last rites and give them a decent burial.

This continued indignity is unacceptable and inhuman, the UNC added.

Meanwhile, it said that the Naga people truly appreciate the bold decision of the Naga legislators to abstain from the 8th Session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly in protest against killing of innocent civilians, delay in the delivery of justice for the victims, and against the presence of Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen.

"This move [of the Naga MLAs] was not a routine protest.

It is historic and reflects deep-seated grievances over the prolonged failure to conclude investigation, initiate effective prosecution, and deliver justice in the Leilon Vaiphei case," UNC stated.

The State and Central Governments must take appropriate and time-bound actions to address the grievances of the Naga people.

The Governments must ensure an impartial investigation, accountability for delays and dignified handling of the mortal remains of the victims.

Failing to meet the charter of demands may lead to serious political ramifications in the State, said the UNC .

Comment