Moreh, June 6, 2025, Virthli: A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Moreh has strongly condemned the alleged arbitrary arrest of Kamginthang Gangte by Assam Rifles personnel without following due legal procedures. In a joint statement, the CSOs accused Lt. Col. Nitin Sharma of the 5th Assam Rifles of once again misusing his authority for personal gain and disrupting the town’s peace.
The statement, endorsed by the Kuki Chief Association, Hill Tribal Council, Kuki Women Union & Human Rights, Kuki Students Organisation, Moreh Youth Club, and Kuki Khanglai Lawmpi, among others, called for the immediate transfer of Lt. Col. Sharma out of Moreh to restore normalcy.
Describing the act as unjust and provocative, the CSOs announced a 24-hour total shutdown in Moreh starting from 12:00 PM on June 6 to 12:00 PM on June 7, 2025. The shutdown will be followed by a peaceful mass rally from Galngam Lentol to the ADC Complex beginning at 7:00 AM on June 7.
The joint CSOs said the aim of the shutdown and rally is to protest the arrest of Kuki CSO leaders and SoO (Suspension of Operations) cadres, and to appeal for their immediate and safe release after due verification. They called the incident an example of arbitrary action that threatens the peaceful coexistence of security forces and civilians in the region.
The statement further urged central authorities to focus on apprehending those truly responsible for inciting ethnic violence, naming Meitei leaders like Korounganba Khuman. The CSOs called for balanced justice and adherence to legal procedures in handling such sensitive cases.
ALSO READ: Multiple Arrests in Manipur as Security Forces Target Extortion, Insurgency, and Drugs
Concluding their statement, the signatories appealed to authorities to release the detained individual and ensure he is returned to his designated SoO camp as per the agreement’s rules.
