Manipur: CoTU Condemns Abduction of 71-Year-Old Man in Sadar Hills Amid Rising Tensions

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has strongly condemned the alleged abduction of 71-year-old Hemjang Haokip from Khunkho Kuki Village in the Sadar Hills region of Manipur’s Kangpokpi district. According to statements released by the organization, the elderly man was taken from his village at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon by armed individuals suspected to be cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF-Kamson) faction.^[1]

The situation rapidly escalated over the weekend as search operations, bolstered by security forces and sniffer dogs, led to the alarming discovery of clothes belonging to the abducted man near his farm.^[2] During the incident, reports indicate that a hut belonging to the elderly farmer was also burnt down by the perpetrators.^[3] In response to these developments, local village bodies have set a 24-hour deadline for his safe release, intensifying pressure on law enforcement and government authorities to trace his whereabouts.^[4]

Violation of Ceasefire Rules and Communal Harmony

CoTU has characterized the targeting of an elderly civilian as a deliberate and serious provocation designed to heighten communal tensions and disrupt the long-standing coexistence between the Kuki and Naga communities in the region.^[5] The committee drew direct links between this abduction and recent political developments in the state, specifically noting the recent suspension of an economic blockade by the United Naga Council (UNC).^[6]

A primary concern raised by CoTU is the brazen nature of the crime. The organization publicly questioned how armed cadres belonging to groups currently bound by official ceasefire agreements could allegedly operate openly with firearms in broad daylight.^[7] CoTU stressed that if the involvement of these factions is confirmed, it raises critical questions about compliance with established ceasefire ground rules and highlights a severe deterioration of the security apparatus in the Kangpokpi district.^[8]

Demands for State and Civil Intervention

Describing the abduction as an act engineered by vested interests to sow division, CoTU has launched an urgent appeal to civil society organizations, church leaders, and community elders across all communities to intervene on strict humanitarian grounds and facilitate Haokip’s immediate and safe release.^[9]

Furthermore, the committee has directed its demands to the highest levels of the state apparatus. CoTU urged Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the State Security Advisor, and local law enforcement agencies to register a formal case, launch an immediate, comprehensive rescue operation, and initiate stringent legal action against those responsible for the abduction and arson.^[10] While the specific identities and factional affiliations of the abductors remain subject to official verification, the incident has severely underscored the fragile nature of peace in peripheral tribal areas.

Footnotes

1. "Manipur: CoTU condemns alleged abduction of 71-year-old man in Sadar Hills," Northeast Now, October 4, 2026, https://nenow.in/north-east-news/manipur/manipur-cotu-condemns-alleged-abduction-of-71-year-old-man-in-sadar-hills.html.

2. Kaybie Chongloi, "Manipur: Clothes of allegedly abducted 71-year-old Kuki man found; village body sets 24-hour release deadline," India Today NE, October 4, 2026, https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-clothes-of-allegedly-abducted-71-year-old-kuki-man-found-village-body-sets-24-hour-release-deadline-1458628-2026-10-04.

3. "Elderly Kuki Farmer Abducted, Hut Burnt - CoTU Blames NSCN-IM," Kukiland Express, October 4, 2026, https://kukilandexpress.in/elderly-kuki-farmer-abducted-hut/.

4. Chongloi, "Manipur: Clothes of allegedly abducted 71-year-old Kuki man found."

5. "CoTU Condemns Alleged Abduction of 71-Year-Old Man in Sadar Hills," ManipurArticles.com, October 4, 2026, https://manipurarticles.com/manipur-cotu-condemns-alleged-abduction-of-71-year-old-man-in-sadar-hills/.

6. "Manipur: CoTU condemns alleged abduction of 71-year-old man in Sadar Hills," Northeast Now.

7. "Manipur: CoTU condemns alleged abduction of 71-year-old man in Sadar Hills," Northeast Now.

8. "Elderly Kuki Farmer Abducted, Hut Burnt - CoTU Blames NSCN-IM," Kukiland Express.

9. "CoTU Condemns Alleged Abduction of 71-Year-Old Man in Sadar Hills," ManipurArticles.com.

10. "Manipur: CoTU condemns alleged abduction of 71-year-old man in Sadar Hills," Northeast Now.

Bibliography

Chongloi, Kaybie. "Manipur: Clothes of allegedly abducted 71-year-old Kuki man found; village body sets 24-hour release deadline." India Today NE. October 4, 2026. https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-clothes-of-allegedly-abducted-71-year-old-kuki-man-found-village-body-sets-24-hour-release-deadline-1458628-2026-10-04.

"CoTU Condemns Alleged Abduction of 71-Year-Old Man in Sadar Hills." ManipurArticles.com. October 4, 2026. https://manipurarticles.com/manipur-cotu-condemns-alleged-abduction-of-71-year-old-man-in-sadar-hills/.

"Elderly Kuki Farmer Abducted, Hut Burnt - CoTU Blames NSCN-IM." Kukiland Express. October 4, 2026. https://kukilandexpress.in/elderly-kuki-farmer-abducted-hut/.

"Manipur: CoTU condemns alleged abduction of 71-year-old man in Sadar Hills." Northeast Now. October 4, 2026. https://nenow.in/north-east-news/manipur/manipur-cotu-condemns-alleged-abduction-of-71-year-old-man-in-sadar-hills.html.

Manipur Government Approves Rs 10 Lakh Compensation for Families of 49 Missing Persons

The Manipur state government has announced a one-time humanitarian compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the next of kin of 49 individuals who remain missing following the outbreak of ethnic conflict in May 2023^[1]. The decision was formally approved during a state Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, with officials acknowledging the profound hardships faced by these families over the past year and a half.

Under standard legal procedures, a missing person is typically presumed dead only after seven years. Because the families lack official death certificates and postmortem reports, they have been entirely excluded from Central scheme benefits^[2]. However, recognizing that these families are enduring struggles comparable to the relatives of deceased victims—who also received Rs 10 lakh—the state government decided to extend the same financial assistance. The total financial implication of Rs 4.90 crore will be borne entirely by the Manipur state government.

While official records did not explicitly disclose the community profiles of the 49 missing individuals, local sources indicate that at least 33 belong to the Meitei community, with the remaining individuals belonging to the Naga and Kuki communities^[3]. Since the conflict began, more than 300 lives have been lost across the region.

Demands for Alternative Livelihoods

The financial assistance, while welcomed, has drawn calls for more sustainable long-term support. According to R.K. Bijayalaxmi Devi, president of the NGO Souls Offered Unitedly for a Lustrated Society (SOULS), almost all of the missing individuals—with the exception of four students—were the sole breadwinners for their households^[4].

Devi emphasized that Rs 10 lakh is insufficient to sustain these families permanently. The NGO has formally requested the government to provide government jobs to the next of kin, alongside alternative means of livelihood in the interim period^[5]. For months, these families have waited for closure and justice, previously unable to access standard relief packages due to the absence of official death documentation.

Enhanced Ex-Gratia for Security Forces and Additional Cabinet Decisions

In addition to humanitarian aid for civilian families, the Manipur Cabinet approved a substantial increase in ex-gratia payments for Army and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel killed or injured while operating in the state. Recognizing that central forces face the same operational risks as the state police, the government aligned their compensation rates accordingly:

• Death: Rs 10 lakh (up from Rs 2 lakh)

• Permanent Disability: Rs 2 lakh

• Grievous Injury: Rs 1 lakh

• Simple Injury: Rs 20,000 (up from Rs 10,000)

The Cabinet also approved the constitution of the Fifth Manipur State Finance Commission (spanning 2026-27 to 2030-31) and sanctioned a pension hike for retired journalists, raising their monthly pension from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000.

Footnotes

1. "49 people missing since Manipur conflict remain untraced; state govt to offer Rs 10 lakh to each family," Deccan Herald, accessed October 3, 2026, https://www.deccanherald.com/india/manipur/49-people-missing-since-manipur-conflict-remain-untraced-state-govt-to-offer-rs-10-lakh-to-each-family-4168437.

2. "49 people missing since Manipur conflict remain untraced," Deccan Herald.

3. "49 people missing since Manipur conflict remain untraced," Deccan Herald.

4. "49 people missing since Manipur conflict remain untraced," Deccan Herald.

5. "49 people missing since Manipur conflict remain untraced," Deccan Herald.

Bibliography

"49 people missing since Manipur conflict remain untraced; state govt to offer Rs 10 lakh to each family." Deccan Herald. Accessed October 3, 2026. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/manipur/49-people-missing-since-manipur-conflict-remain-untraced-state-govt-to-offer-rs-10-lakh-to-each-family-4168437.

"Kin of Manipur’s 49 people missing since 2023 ethnic conflict to get ₹10 lakh each." The Hindu. October 2, 2026. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/manipur/kin-of-manipurs-49-people-missing-since-2023-ethnic-conflict-to-get-10-lakh-each/article71535748.ece.

"Manipur Cabinet approves Rs 10 lakh aid for kin of 49 missing since 2023 violence." India Today. October 1, 2026. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/manipur/story/manipur-cabinet-rs-10-lakh-aid-49-missing-2023-violence-3007774-2026-10-01.

Over 200 Naga Households Displaced in Manipur: Zeliangrong Leaders Demand Urgent Relief and Highway Security

Recent escalating tensions and suspected arson in Manipur have led to the displacement of over 200 Naga households. Residents from dozens of homes across at least eight villages in the Noney, Tamenglong, and Kangpokpi districts have been forced to flee their residences^[1]. Vulnerable settlements, including Sempat Naga, Gaidunluang, and Chamripeu, have been largely abandoned as communities fear further attacks and violence.

According to a memorandum submitted to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on October 1, 2026, by the Former & Senior Leaders’ Forum of Zeliangrong Civil Organisations (FSLFZCOs), the situation is rapidly deteriorating^[2]. Local news outlets, including Northeast News and Imphal Times, report that the forum highlighted how the growing unrest between the Naga and Kuki communities, exacerbated by recent civilian deaths in the Kamjong district, has amplified insecurity throughout the region^[3].

Urgent Demands for IDP Status and Border Security

In their direct appeal, Zeliangrong leaders urged the state government to officially recognize the displaced families as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)^[4]. Granting IDP status is critical for these households to immediately access standard humanitarian relief benefits.

Furthermore, the FSLFZCOs identified several border villages, such as Konsaram and Chawangkining, as highly vulnerable flashpoints. The civil bodies called for the immediate deployment of state security personnel to protect these areas and prevent further displacement^[5].

Strengthening Security on National Highway 37

A primary concern raised in the memorandum is the safety of civilians traveling along National Highway 37 (the Imphal-Jiribam corridor), a vital economic and transit artery^[6]. The forum demanded robust security escorts for civilian vehicles operating from Monday to Saturday, proposing strategic staging points at Keithelmanbi and Tupul Bazar, or alternatively, a continuous 11-hour daily security presence along the route^[7].

To underline the gravity of the threat, the forum recalled a tragic 1994 ambush during historical Kuki-Naga conflicts, where an insurgent attack on a passenger bus killed 40 civilians on this highway^[8]. The leaders argue this historical precedent justifies strongly managed highway security protocols today.

Addressing Inter-District Boundary Disputes

To achieve long-term peace, the FSLFZCOs proposed a formal reorganization of inter-district boundaries^[9]. The forum stressed that resolving these deeply rooted land and jurisdictional disputes is essential to ending the continuing conflicts and securing lasting stability for all communities in Manipur^[10].

Footnotes

1. Bit Irom, "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced in three districts amid escalating Naga-Kuki conflict," Northeast Now, October 2, 2026, https://nenow.in/north-east-news/manipur/manipur-over-200-naga-households-displaced-in-three-districts-amid-escalating-naga-kuki-conflict.html.

2. "Over 200 Naga Households Displaced Amid Naga-Kuki Tensions," ManipurArticles.com, October 2, 2026, https://manipurarticles.com/manipur-over-200-naga-households-displaced-amid-naga-kuki-tensions/.

3. "Zeliangrong civil bodies seek security escorts, IDP benefits," Imphal Times, October 1, 2026, https://www.imphaltimes.com/news/zeliangrong-civil-bodies-seek-security-escorts-idp-benefits/.

4. "Zeliangrong civil bodies seek security escorts, IDP benefits," Imphal Times, October 1, 2026.

5. Irom, "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced."

6. "Over 200 Naga Households Displaced Amid Naga-Kuki Tensions," ManipurArticles.com, October 2, 2026.

7. Irom, "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced."

8. Irom, "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced."

9. Irom, "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced."

10. Irom, "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced."

Bibliography

Irom, Bit. "Manipur: Over 200 Naga households displaced in three districts amid escalating Naga-Kuki conflict." Northeast Now. October 2, 2026. https://nenow.in/north-east-news/manipur/manipur-over-200-naga-households-displaced-in-three-districts-amid-escalating-naga-kuki-conflict.html.

"Over 200 Naga Households Displaced Amid Naga-Kuki Tensions." ManipurArticles.com. October 2, 2026. https://manipurarticles.com/manipur-over-200-naga-households-displaced-amid-naga-kuki-tensions/.

"Zeliangrong civil bodies seek security escorts, IDP benefits." Imphal Times. October 1, 2026. https://www.imphaltimes.com/news/zeliangrong-civil-bodies-seek-security-escorts-idp-benefits/.

Zeliangrong Group Accuses NSCN-IM of Sustained Violence and Discrimination

Imphal, July 30, 2025 – The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF), an armed organization, has issued a strong condemnation of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM), accusing it of years of targeted violence, discrimination, and persecution against the Zeliangrong people and their cadres within the NSCN-IM ranks. The ZUF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and identity of the Zeliangrong kindred tribes.

In a public statement, the ZUF asserted its unwavering dedication to the Zeliangrong people's cause, despite persistent opposition and challenges. Describing itself as a people's movement driven by a deep sense of identity and love for its communities, the Front claimed that NSCN-IM has disregarded peace efforts, exploiting ZUF's goodwill.

The ZUF detailed numerous alleged incidents where NSCN-IM members or factions purportedly tortured, falsely implicated, or executed Zeliangrong youth, cadres, and civilians without due process. Specific cases cited include:

• The killings of 'Captain' Alan of Phalong village, 'Captain' Akhuam of Ritiang, and Angaipou Gangmei of Dailong.

• The death of 'private' Muanjang Pamei of Bamgaijang in 2012.

• The custodial death of 'private' Chingjuan Balang alias Rejoice in 2005.

• The 2004 rape and killing of Lunglailu Gangmei near the Bangladesh-Mizoram border.

• Deaths of trainees at NP Battalion (Bunning) under the command of Col Standhope.

• The 2021 murder of prominent Zeliangrong social activist and former Zeliangrong Baudi (AMN) president Athuan Abonmai.

• The killing of an elderly blind civilian, Pouluathui Maringmei, on suspicion of affiliation with NNC, which the ZUF described as an act of "total inhumanity."

Expressing grave concern over the recent disappearance of NSCN-IM cadre 'Captain' Jiandai Kamei alias Thomas of Ruangdai village, the ZUF demanded an immediate investigation into his whereabouts and called for accountability for those responsible. The Front criticized the perceived "continued silence and inaction" from within the Zeliangrong community regarding such incidents, warning that indifference would only foster deeper distrust.

The ZUF further alleged that Zeliangrong cadres within NSCN-IM face increasing insecurity, mental and physical torture, false accusations, and unjust punishments without proper investigation or transparency. This, they claimed, creates an atmosphere of alienation and suspicion within the group.

The Front also criticized NSCN-IM's "Naga socialism" philosophy, describing it as resembling authoritarian rule enforced by force and majority dominance. They warned that these tactics are creating profound divisions within Naga society, with Zeliangrong people bearing an "unbearable" burden of discrimination and suffering.

The statement concluded by emphasizing that the ZUF emerged from a desire to assert the Zeliangrong people's historical and political rights and to determine their own future, both within the framework of Naga nationalism and the Indian Union. The ZUF warned NSCN-IM that continued "offensive confrontation" could lead to "defensive war of confrontation within and among the Nagas."

Finally, the ZUF urged the public to disregard provocative social media narratives and reiterated its commitment to maintaining an equidistant understanding with all organizations, whether civil or military, while striving for peace and harmony in the region.

Source: E-pao

14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament 2025

The Zeliangrong people, indigenous to the Northeast Indian states of Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland, are set to commemorate the enduring legacy of their revered spiritual and political leader, Haipou Jadonang, through the 14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament 2025.¹ This annual event, organized by the Zeliangrong Football Association (ZFA), transcends mere sport, serving as a powerful symbol of unity, cultural pride, and collective remembrance for the Zeliangrong community spread across these three states.²

The tournament is slated to kick off on October 11, 2025. This year, the grand opening ceremony and initial matches, along with the conclusive closing ceremony and final game, will be held at the prominent Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal East. This choice of venue underscores the significance and scale of the event for the Zeliangrong community. The subsequent league and knock-out rounds will utilize the SAI Football Grass Ground and Turf Ground, NERC Takyel, also in Imphal, ensuring high-quality playing surfaces for the participating teams.³

In a testament to the growing stature of the tournament, substantial cash prizes have been announced for the winning teams. The champions of this year's edition will be awarded an impressive INR 2 lakh, accompanied by a prestigious trophy. The runners-up team will also receive a significant INR 1 lakh and a trophy, incentivizing fierce but fair competition. Beyond the top two teams, the tournament recognizes excellence in other aspects of play and conduct, with awards for the "Best Disciplined Team" and "Best Parade Team" for group participants. Individual accolades will include "Best Player," "Best Keeper," and "Top Scorer," each accompanied by a cash prize of INR 20,000 and INR 10,000 respectively, along with a trophy.⁴

The invitation to participate extends to every Zeliangrong village youth club across Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland, fostering a sense of pan-Zeliangrong unity and healthy competition. Each eligible club is entitled to sponsor not more than one team for the prestigious tournament, ensuring broad representation from the community.⁵

Administrative details for participation have also been released. Entry forms will be made available from August 18 to September 20, 2025, on all working days, excluding Sundays. The deadline for the submission of these completed entry forms is September 27, 2025. Interested Zeliangrong village youth clubs can collect their entry forms from the ZFA's head office located at Kakhulong, Paona Bazar, Imphal, during specified office hours between 11 AM and 4 PM. A nominal entry form fee of INR 1,000 has been set, with a registration fee of INR 5,000 for this year's tournament, covering organizational costs and prize money.⁶

This annual football event not only showcases the athletic talent within the Zeliangrong community but also serves as a crucial platform for cultural exchange and reinforcement of shared identity among the youth from different geographical regions. By commemorating Haipou Jadonang, the tournament perpetuates the memory of a leader who fought for Zeliangrong self-determination and cultural preservation, solidifying his place in the collective consciousness of his people.⁷

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Sources:

¹ The tournament's name directly honors Haipou Jadonang, a key figure in Zeliangrong history and religion. See: Arkotong Longkumer, Reform, Identity and Narratives of Belonging: The Heraka Movement in Northeast India (Bloomsbury Academic, 2010), 50-55.

² The Zeliangrong Football Association (ZFA) organizes this event to promote unity and cultural pride within the community across different states. See: EMN, "14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament to kick off on October 11," The Sangai Express, Chronicle News Service via e-pao.net, published July 29, 2025.

³ Specific details regarding the start date (October 11) and the venues (Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, SAI Football Grass Ground and Turf Ground) are from the provided news release. See: EMN, "14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament."

⁴ Information on the cash prizes (INR 2 lakh for winners, INR 1 lakh for runners-up) and various individual/group awards are clearly outlined in the tournament's announcement. See: EMN, "14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament."

⁵ The invitation criteria for Zeliangrong village youth clubs from Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland, along with the "not more than one team" rule, are part of the participation guidelines. See: EMN, "14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament."

⁶ Details on the entry form issuance and submission dates (August 18 to September 20, closes September 27), collection location (Kakhulong, Paona Bazar, Imphal), office hours, and fees (INR 1,000 entry form, INR 5,000 registration) are practical information for participants. See: EMN, "14th Jadonang Memorial Football Tournament."

⁷ The broader significance of the tournament for cultural exchange, youth engagement, and perpetuating Jadonang's legacy is an interpretation of the event's underlying purpose. See: General analyses of sports tournaments in indigenous communities for cultural preservation.