Security forces recover bodies of two missing Kuki youths in Manipur
Tensions rose in Kangpokpi district after the bodies of two men missing since October 28 were found.
Security forces recovered the bodies of two missing Kuki-Zo youths in Manipur's Senapati district on Sunday, according to The Indian Express. The deceased have been identified as 20-year-old Paoginlal Hangsing and 21-year-old Tinginlun Chongloi, who went missing from Taphou Kuki village on October 28.
The recovery followed a joint search operation involving the Manipur Police, CoBRA, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and the Rapid Action Force. The teams searched the area east of National Highway-2 along the Senapati Phaibung Road. Police stated that legal procedures are being completed and that further efforts to find those accountable for the deaths will continue.
Hindustan Times reported that the discovery triggered protests and clashes in Kangpokpi district. When the Superintendent of Police brought the bodies to the district hospital, crowds attempted to storm the SP's office. This led to confrontations where security forces used tear gas and fired rounds into the air, while protesters used stones and slingshots.
At least three protesters were injured during the clashes.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) announced it would not accept the mortal remains until five demands are met. These include transferring Taphou Kuki village to Kangpokpi's police jurisdiction, removing the NSCN-IM's Huthrong Brigade from its Oklong camp, and handing the case to the NIA. CoTU spokesperson Ng.
Lun Kipgen also demanded the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho from the state cabinet.