KLA Condemns Kangpokpi Incident, Demands Probe Into Advocate’s Abduction
The Kuki Lawyers’ Association has demanded urgent action in connection with the alleged abduction of Advocate Kaiminlen Haokip during an incident of violence reported in Kangpokpi district on January 26.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Association alleged that Haokip and other tribal villagers were unlawfully detained, blindfolded, and threatened by armed individuals. Terming the incident an attack on fundamental rights and the rule of law, the KLA sought immediate legal action against those responsible.
The Association accused armed cadres of the Zeliangrong United Front–Kamson faction of being involved in the alleged arson and abduction at K. Songlung village. It described the incident as a grave violation of both constitutional guarantees and international human rights norms.
Citing Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution, the KLA said the alleged acts also breached provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The Association called for an independent and time-bound investigation, protection for affected villagers, fixation of responsibility, and appropriate compensation and rehabilitation measures. It cautioned that failure to act decisively could encourage further violence.
According to the KLA, the violence resulted in the destruction of houses, plantations, agricultural assets, and a government-supported integrated farming project in a hamlet inhabited by about 32 people from seven households, terming the damage as collective punishment prohibited under law.
