Manipur Announces Rs 10 Lakh Compensation After Militant Kidnapping and Killing
Authorities in Manipur have expressed profound concern and announced significant financial compensation following the tragic kidnapping and killing of a young man in Churachandpur district. The victim, identified as 29-year-old Mayanglambam Rishikanta Singh, also known by the name Ginminthang, was reportedly visiting his fiancée when the violent incident unfolded.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to official statements, Singh, who belonged to the Meitei community, was visiting his fiancée Chingnu Haokip, a member of the Kuki tribal community, at her residence in Tuibong. On January 21, both individuals were forcibly taken from their home by suspected militants belonging to the United Kuki National Army (UKNA).
The situation turned fatal when Singh was subsequently shot dead at Natjang village under the jurisdiction of Henglep police station on the same day. His fiancée was later released by the abductors, but Singh's body was not recovered until the following day. The remains were transported to the JNIMS mortuary in Imphal, where they currently remain unclaimed, adding another layer of tragedy to this devastating event.
Government Response and Compensation
In response to this horrific crime, Manipur Home Commissioner N Ashok Kumar issued an official statement on Friday conveying heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The government announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin, demonstrating both financial support and symbolic recognition of their profound loss.
Commissioner Kumar emphasized that the state government shares the grief and sorrow of the family during this exceptionally difficult time. This gesture represents one of several measures being implemented to address the aftermath of the violence and provide some measure of support to affected families.
Security Operations and Investigation
Following the killing, intensive combing operations were immediately launched in Natjang and surrounding areas of Churachandpur district. However, authorities have reported that no arrests or significant seizures have been made thus far in connection with the incident.
The case has now been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for a thorough and impartial probe, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities are treating this matter. The UKNA, responsible for this attack, is notably a non-signatory to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement that was originally signed in 2008 between the Central government, the Manipur government, and 23 Kuki-Zo militant groups.
Political and Community Reactions
In a related development, a joint action committee led by Congress MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, accompanied by Congress MLAs Thokchom Lokeshwar Singh and Kangujam Ranjit Singh, met with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday night. They were joined by family members of the deceased and submitted a memorandum seeking urgent action regarding the incident.
The governor expressed deep sorrow over what had occurred, extended his personal condolences to the family, and assured that all necessary measures are being implemented. He confirmed that the case has indeed been transferred to the NIA and emphasized that coordinated operations by both state and Central security forces are currently underway on a war footing.
Meanwhile, several political and community organizations have strongly condemned the killing:
- The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded strict punishment for the perpetrators
- The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) termed the act brutal and alleged that the Central government has failed to control armed militant groups in the violence-affected state
- Numerous other civil society organizations have joined in condemning the violence
Public Outrage and Protests
Public outrage has been growing steadily across Manipur, with large gatherings and protests reported in Kakching district. On Thursday, shops, schools, offices, and business establishments in Kakching Khunou Bazar remained completely closed as part of widespread protests against the killing.
This collective action demonstrates the depth of community concern and the urgent demand for justice and improved security measures in the region. The incident has further highlighted the complex ethnic tensions and security challenges facing Manipur, particularly in areas where different communities intersect.
