NIA Arrests Two Militants for Brutal Killing of Woman in Manipur’s Jiribam
📰 News Summary
On May 13, 2025, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested two individuals affiliated with banned militant groups for their alleged involvement in the brutal killing of a woman in Manipur’s Jiribam district. The victim, identified as 31-year-old Zosangkim, was subjected to severe torture and suffered 99% burns, with several body parts missing. The accused, Nongthombam Meiraba of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and Sagolsem Sanatomba alias Surchandra Singh of the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), are currently in NIA custody until May 17. The incident occurred in November 2024 amid ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
Unraveling the Tragedy in Jiribam: A Deep Dive into the NIA’s Recent Arrests
Understanding the Context: Ethnic Tensions in Manipur
Manipur, a northeastern state in India, has been grappling with ethnic tensions between the Meitei community, primarily residing in the Imphal valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribes inhabiting the surrounding hills. These tensions escalated in May 2023 following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ protesting the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The resulting violence led to over 260 deaths and displaced thousands.
The Incident in Zairawn Village
In November 2024, Zairawn village in Jiribam district, previously untouched by the ethnic clashes, witnessed a horrific incident. Armed militants attacked the village, resulting in the brutal killing of a 31-year-old tribal woman named Zosangkim. According to the autopsy report, she suffered third-degree burns covering 99% of her body, with several limbs and facial structures missing. The report indicated that the mutilation occurred post-mortem.
The Arrests: Who Are the Accused?
The NIA identified and arrested two individuals in connection with the incident:
- Nongthombam Meiraba: A resident of Bishnupur district and a member of the proscribed insurgent group United National Liberation Front (UNLF). He is alleged to have carried out the actual shooting of the victim.
- Sagolsem Sanatomba alias Surchandra Singh alias Piba: Hailing from Thoubal district, he is associated with the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), another banned militant outfit. He was reportedly part of the group involved in the attack.
Both individuals are currently in NIA custody until May 17, 2025, as investigations continue.
FAQs
Q1: What led to the ethnic tensions in Manipur?
The tensions primarily stem from the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status, which was opposed by the hill-based tribal communities, leading to widespread protests and violence
Q2: Who are the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL)?
Both are proscribed insurgent groups operating in Manipur, involved in various activities aimed at asserting their political and ideological objectives.
Q3: What is the significance of the NIA’s involvement in this case?
The NIA’s involvement brings specialized investigative capabilities to the case, ensuring a thorough probe into the terror-related aspects of the crime.
Q4: How has the government responded to the ongoing violence in Manipur?
The central government imposed President’s Rule in Manipur on February 13, 2025, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, to restore order and address the escalating violence
Q5: What measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future?
Efforts include increased security deployments, community engagement initiatives, and dialogues aimed at addressing the underlying issues fueling the conflict.
