Manipur: KNO Home Torched — Two Kuki-Zo Bodies Condemn the Act
Unidentified miscreants set fire to the residence of KNO (Kuki National Organisation) secretary of external affairs, Khenthang (Calvin), in Dorcas Veng, New Lamka, Churachandpur during the early hours of 14 September 2025. The KNO and the United People’s Front (UPF) — both under a Suspension of Operations (SoO) with the Government of India — publicly condemned the torching, called it “juvenile behaviour,” and urged calm and self-introspection among the youth and wider community. The joint statement emphasized working toward peace and reconciliation rather than stoking unrest.
What happened
In the early hours of 14 September 2025, unknown perpetrators set ablaze the residence of Khenthang (also known as Calvin), who serves as the KNO’s secretary of external affairs, in Dorcas Veng, New Lamka, located in Churachandpur district. The KNO and the United People’s Front (UPF) — both operating under a Suspension of Operations agreement with the Government of India — issued a joint statement condemning the attack as “mischievous” and “juvenile behaviour.” They called for accountability, self-reflection among the youth, and collaborative efforts for peace and reconciliation. The vandalism reportedly began earlier, including an incident where welcome decorations for a visiting dignitary on NH-02 at Pearsonmun were vandalized, escalating tensions before the arson. ident will be a reminder of how fragile peace can be guarded — not a stepping stone to renewed conflict. The ripple can end at the shore if people choose to steady the waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who was the target of the arson and where did it happen?
A1: The target was Khenthang (Calvin), the KNO’s secretary of external affairs; his house in Dorcas Veng, New Lamka, Churachandpur was set ablaze in the early hours of 14 September 2025.
Q2: Which organizations condemned the act and what did they say?
A2: The Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United People’s Front (UPF) condemned the torching, calling it “juvenile behaviour,” and urged citizens — especially youth — to practice self-introspection and help preserve peace.
Q3: Was this incident connected to any larger political event?
A3: Reports say the disturbances began around the time of a Prime Minister’s visit, with earlier vandalism of welcome decorations near Pearsonmun on NH-02, suggesting the timing was politically sensitive
Q4: What immediate steps should local authorities take?
A4: Authorities should conduct a transparent investigation, collect and preserve evidence, engage community leaders to prevent rumor and retaliation, and provide support to affected families. The KNO/UPF statement calls for finding solutions rather than escalating tensions.
Q5: How can communities prevent such incidents in future?
A5: Prevention involves stronger community policing, youth engagement programs, grievance redressal mechanisms, and proactive conflict resolution platforms that include elders, civil society, and political actors. The focus should be on addressing root causes, not just punishing symptoms.
