Nongshum, Uyumpok residents question AR's role
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 26 2026: People of Nongshum and Uyumpok areas have questioned the role of Assam Rifles following the killing of three firewood collectors at Sunurok Uyok on October 19 .

They said that an Assam Rifles camp is located barely 250 metres from the incident site, stating that the lives of the three civilians could have been saved had the paramilitary force acted promptly.

They also expressed apprehension that they might not be able to harvest their paddy, as the safety of civilians could not be guaranteed by the security personnel posted in the area.

It may be mentioned that three individuals, namely Arubam Ronil and Lairenlakpam Inaobi from Nongshum and Kshetrimayum Sushil from Uyumpok Mamang Leikai, were killed by Kuki militants when they went to Sunurok Uyok to collect firewood.

Some other people were also injured in the ambush.

While Ronil and Sushil are survived by three children each, Inaobi is survived by one child.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, Lairenlakpam Ongbi Premika, wife of Inaobi, asserted that the tragedy involving the three firewood collectors could have been averted had the Assam Rifles performed their duties effectively.

She also alleged that the Assam Rifles only patrolled and checked vehicles in the valley areas.

Inaobi's sister-in-law, Bembem, added that the Kuki militants had planned the attack a day or two in advance, alleging lapses on the part of the security forces.

Pointing out that an Assam Rifles camp is located barely 250 metres from the incident site, she questioned why the paramilitary force had failed to detect the plan to carry out the attack.

The Assam Rifles came to protect the Kukis while leaving the Meiteis unprotected, she claimed, urging the Government to withdraw the Assam Rifles from Meitei areas if they could not ensure their safety.

She also questioned the purpose of arming security forces if they could not use their weapons even when civilians were attacked right under their watch.

Bembem said the three civilians killed in the Sunurok ambush could have been saved had the Assam Rifles acted promptly.

She further claimed that Assam Rifles personnel went to the incident site reluctantly, following unarmed civilians from behind, only after coming under public pressure.

Bembem added that the responsibility of security forces is to protect the people and not remain bystanders when civilians are attacked.

Stating that most people in the areas are farmers and firewood collectors, she expressed apprehension that they might not be able to harvest their paddy crops.

She said they have no confidence that the Assam Rifles would protect them during the harvest season and urged the Government to deploy security forces whom the people could rely on before the harvesting season begins.

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