Kuki-Zo CSOs in Manipur’s Moreh Wary Over Arrests, Submit Memorandum to Governor
Quick Summary
On June 7, 2025, Kuki-Zo Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Moreh, Manipur, expressed deep concerns over the arrest of Kamginthang Gangte, a Suspension of Operations (SoO) cadre. They submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, facilitated by Tengnoupal MLA Letpao Haokip, alleging unfair treatment of Kuki-Zo leaders by central agencies. The CSOs criticized the conduct of Lt. Col. Nitin Sharma of the 5 Assam Rifles and called for his transfer to ease tensions. A 24-hour shutdown was enforced across Moreh, concluding on June 6, with an additional shutdown by the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) in Tengnoupal District continuing until 6:00 pm on June 7.
In-Depth Analysis: Unraveling the Threads of Conflict
The Arrest: A Closer Look
The arrest of Kamginthang Gangte by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Assam Rifles has sparked significant unrest in Moreh. The CSOs allege that the arrest lacked due process and transparency, eroding trust in law enforcement among residents.
The Man Behind the Mask: Who is Kamginthang Gangte?
Gangte is a cadre under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, which is a ceasefire arrangement between the government and various insurgent groups in Manipur. His arrest has raised questions about the government’s commitment to the SoO terms and the treatment of Kuki-Zo leaders.
The Incident: A Timeline of Events
- June 6, 2025: Gangte was arrested by NIA and Assam Rifles personnel.
- June 6, 2025: A 24-hour shutdown was enforced across Moreh by CSOs.
- June 6-7, 2025: The Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) in Tengnoupal District initiated a shutdown continuing until 6:00 pm on June 7.
Moreh: A Town on the Edge
Moreh, located on the India-Myanmar border in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district, is a strategic town for international trade and has been a hotspot for ethnic tensions and insurgent activities. Its proximity to Myanmar makes it a critical point for both legal trade and illicit activities, including smuggling and insurgent movements.
Security Measures and Government Response
The CSOs have expressed concerns about perceived bias in law enforcement following the ethnic unrest that began in Manipur on May 3, 2023. They highlighted the conduct of Lt. Col. Nitin Sharma of the 5 Assam Rifles, describing his actions as “provocative” and calling for his transfer to ease tensions.
Public Outcry and Civil Society’s Stand
The memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla reflects the community’s grievances over the alleged arbitrary arrests and the need for fair treatment of Kuki-Zo leaders. The CSOs’ actions, including the shutdowns, indicate a deep-seated mistrust in the current law enforcement approach and a call for more transparent and just practices
FAQs
Q1: Who is Kamginthang Gangte?
A1: Kamginthang Gangte is a Suspension of Operations (SoO) cadre whose recent arrest by NIA and Assam Rifles personnel has sparked unrest among the Kuki-Zo community in Moreh, Manipur.
Q2: What is the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement?
A2: The SoO is a ceasefire arrangement between the government and various insurgent groups in Manipur, aiming to facilitate peace talks and reduce violence in the region.
Q3: Why did the CSOs submit a memorandum to the Governor?
A3: The CSOs submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to express their grievances over the alleged arbitrary arrests of Kuki-Zo leaders and to call for fair treatment and transparency in law enforcement.
Q4: What actions did the CSOs take following the arrest?
A4: The CSOs enforced a 24-hour shutdown across Moreh, concluding on June 6, and the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) in Tengnoupal District initiated a shutdown continuing until 6:00 pm on June 7.
Q5: What are the CSOs’ concerns regarding Lt. Col. Nitin Sharma?
A5: The CSOs have criticized Lt. Col. Nitin Sharma of the 5 Assam Rifles for his conduct, describing his actions as “provocative” and calling for his transfer to ease tensions in the region.
