The United Naga Council (UNC) on February 13 issued a statement expressing grave concern over fresh violent incidents in Manipur even as the Naga community prepares to observe the Lui-Ngai-Ni seed-sowing festival on February 15. The council, through Information and Publicity Secretary H. James Hau, condemned attacks on Starling Shimray of Shakarphai and on Azan Abonmai at K. Lungwiram village that occurred on the evening of February 7 and the early hours of February 9, respectively, and said the violence led to houses being burned and other property destroyed across Ukhrul, Litan and nearby areas.
The UNC voiced alarm at what it described as “the open presence of Kuki militants in full uniforms and sophisticated arms,” alleging that these groups fired volleys of bullets near Indian security forces. The council also accused security personnel of facilitating Kuki armed groups in the burning of Naga homes and properties at Litan. These claims were presented by the UNC as part of its public appeal; the statement framed them as serious violations requiring investigation.
Reiterating the Nagas’ stance on the wider ethnic conflict that has affected Manipur since May 3, 2023, the UNC stressed its official position of neutrality. “The declared position of the Nagas in Manipur on the ethnic conflict… has been ‘neutrality’, without fear or favour of either the Meiteis and the Kuki‑Zo‑Hmar, in the interest of peace and restoration of normalcy. This stands unchanged,” the statement said.
The council said both recent incidents centre on land‑ownership disputes. While committing to long‑term peaceful resolution, the UNC warned it would not allow Naga “history, culture, land, and identity to be threatened” and declared that “any further aggression will have to be met with resolute actions.”
Despite the tense security situation, the UNC confirmed that Lui‑Ngai‑Ni celebrations will proceed as scheduled in Ukhrul on February 15, 2026. The council described this year’s festival as a symbol of renewal and reconciliation, saying it will “renew the sowing of the seeds of fraternity and love within the Naga family and of mutual respect with their neighbours” and will reaffirm ancestral values as Nagas commit to improvement, progress and development.
The UNC appealed to all parties to respect Naga rights and dignity and urged goodwill, understanding and participation from all communities for what it called “a meaningful and restorative celebration of Lui‑Ngai‑Ni 2026.” The festival, the statement added, will be observed with due solemnity and prayerful minds amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/united-naga-council-condemns-manipur-violence-warns-of-resolute-action-as-lui-ngai-ni-festival-approaches-1345881-2026-02-13?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-02-13 23:02:00
