Imphal, 18 October (HS): Three Tangkhul Naga civil defence volunteers were injured in a suspected militant attack in Manipur's Kamjong district headquarters on early hours, according to a statement issued by the Naga Village Guard (NVG), Eastern Command.

The incident reportedly took place around 2.30 pm on October 17, when suspected militants allegedly fired towards residential areas in Kamjong, triggering panic among local residents.

The NVG alleged that members of the Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B) and Village Volunteers of Eastern Zone (VVEZ), reportedly based in Chassad Kuki village, were involved in the firing. Naga civil defence guards allegedly retaliated and forced the attackers to retreat, the statement claimed.

The injured were identified as T. Chithung of Ningchou and S. Malung and M. Shithung of Bungpa Khullen. All three were taken to Kamjong Hospital, where their condition was stabilised, according to the NVG.

The organisation further alleged that personnel of the 11 Assam Rifles stationed at Chassad supported the suspected militants during the incident. It claimed that the personnel advanced towards Kamjong in two Casspir vehicles, fired shots and lobbed stun bombs towards civilian areas. The explosives allegedly landed on residential properties, damaging several houses and other structures.

The NVG also accused the Indian government of supporting Kuki militant groups and alleged that the incident was aimed at disrupting the Indo-Naga peace process, which began in 1997.

Condemning the alleged attack, the organisation urged Naga communities to remain vigilant amid the prevailing situation. It warned of serious consequences if such incidents were repeated and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Naga land, identity and people.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash