Manipur CM Khemchand faced a strong protest during his visit to Senapati district on July 8, as residents displayed black flags and demanded justice for six Naga civilians allegedly abducted and killed in May. The protest highlighted growing anger over the killings, with demonstrators calling for a thorough investigation, accountability and prosecution of those responsible.
The protest took place as the chief minister travelled from Imphal towards Senapati by road. People gathered along the route at Liangmai Taphou, carrying black flags and placards. The demonstrators said nearly three months had passed since the six civilians were allegedly abducted on May 13, yet questions remained over the investigation and accountability.
Black flags greet Manipur CM Khemchand
The protesters linked their demonstration to the killings of six Naga civilians from the Konsakhul area. According to reports, the six men were allegedly abducted during the violence that followed an ambush in Kangpokpi district on May 13. Their bodies were later recovered on June 10 in a mutilated and dismembered condition, intensifying public anger.
The demonstrators demanded that the government conduct an impartial and time-bound investigation. They also sought the arrest of everyone involved and prosecution under the law.
The black-flag protest came amid continuing demands from Naga civil society organisations for justice. The issue has remained a major source of tension between Naga and Kuki communities in parts of Manipur.
Investigation into six Naga killings
The state government has said the case is being investigated and that efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible.
Earlier, Manipur CM Khemchand had assured Naga representatives that the government was taking the disappearance of the six men seriously. During his May 28 visit to Makhan Naga village in Kangpokpi, he met displaced people staying at a relief camp and said security forces were conducting search and combing operations. Four suspects connected with the abduction had been arrested at that stage, according to the chief minister.
The case later came under the National Investigation Agency. On July 11, reports said two people had been arrested for their alleged involvement in the killings. The arrests followed sustained demands for action from Naga organisations and affected families.
Despite these developments, the protest showed that sections of the Naga community remain dissatisfied with the pace of the investigation and want further action against all alleged perpetrators.
Justice remains a key demand
The killings have triggered protests, candlelight vigils and appeals from several Naga organisations. Civil society groups have repeatedly demanded that the authorities establish the full circumstances surrounding the abduction and deaths.
For families of the victims, the demand goes beyond arrests. They want accountability and a clear legal process that establishes responsibility for the killings. The continuing protests also reflect concerns about security in areas affected by the wider ethnic conflict.
The situation has added another layer to Manipur’s already complex security crisis. While the state government has been urging communities to choose dialogue and cooperation, incidents involving Naga and Kuki communities continue to create mistrust.
Manipur CM Khemchand seeks dialogue and peace
During his Senapati visit, Manipur CM Khemchand also met representatives of the United Naga Council and discussed issues concerning the Naga community. His visit was part of efforts to engage communities and review development projects in the district.
The chief minister has repeatedly spoken about dialogue as a way to address Manipur’s divisions. On the same visit, he interacted with Naga and Kuki communities as part of efforts to promote a shared identity and lasting peace.
However, the black-flag demonstration showed the gap between the government’s stated peace efforts and the concerns of victims’ families and sections of the Naga community.
Pressure grows on Manipur government
The protest against Manipur CM Khemchand underscores the pressure facing the state government as it attempts to restore stability after years of ethnic violence.
For the administration, ensuring progress in the six Naga killings case is important not only for the victims’ families but also for rebuilding confidence in law enforcement. A transparent investigation and timely legal action could help address some of the concerns raised by Naga organisations.
For now, the black flags carried along the chief minister’s route have become a visible reminder that demands for justice remain unresolved. As the investigation continues, affected families and civil society groups are likely to keep pressing the government for concrete action and accountability.
Manipur CM Khemchand has called for peace and dialogue, but the continuing demand for justice over the six Naga killings shows that restoring trust will require more than political assurances. The progress of the investigation and prosecution of those found responsible will remain closely watched in the weeks ahead.
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