Naga groups rally in Ukhrul demanding withdrawal of Assam Rifles

Naga organisations staged a massive rally in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on 5 November, demanding a political settlement to the state crisis, an end to a proxy war against the Naga community and the withdrawal of Assam Rifles from Naga-inhabited areas, The Sentinel Assam reported.

Route and disruption of daily life

The rally was organised by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and Tangkhul Frontal Organisation under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC). Protesters first gathered at Dungrei Junction and Mission Ground before marching to Ukhrul Headquarters Ground, where a public meeting was held. The demonstration disrupted normal life, with shops, private institutions and public transport remaining closed, according to the outlet. Participants carried placards highlighting concerns over militarisation, the ongoing ethnic conflict and the presence of armed groups.

Demands presented at the rally

Organisers listed several demands: the withdrawal of Assam Rifles from Naga areas, an end to the alleged arming of Kuki militants, the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and the declaration of Kuki militant organisations as terrorist groups. They also called for the repatriation of Kuki refugees and the deportation of alleged illegal immigrants. Addressing the gathering, Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) president Ramreichan Keishing outlined three key demands – a political settlement to the Manipur crisis, an end to the alleged proxy war and the removal of Assam Rifles from Naga-inhabited areas.

Accusations and continuation of agitation

Keishing accused Kuki groups operating under the SoO agreement of engaging in hostilities against the Naga community and alleged that Assam Rifles had failed to maintain neutrality. He warned that the agitation would continue until their demands were addressed. The Sentinel Assam noted that a similar protest was held in neighbouring Kamjong district, indicating a broader regional expression of the same grievances.

Context of the rally

The rally reflects ongoing tensions in Manipur, where ethnic clashes have persisted for months. While the source does not provide further background, the demands made by the Naga organisations underscore their call for a political solution and a reduction of military presence in areas they consider their own. The continuation of protests in multiple districts suggests that the issue remains unresolved and may influence future security and political arrangements in the state.