Kuki-Zo Council admits 'grave mistake' in Naga killings

In a rare public admission of responsibility, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has apologised for the killing of six Naga civilians whose bodies were recovered earlier this month after nearly a month in captivity, describing the incident as a "grave mistake".

Addressing a press conference in Churachandpur, KZC chairman Henlianthang Thanglet said the killings were committed "out of emotion" and were neither authorised nor approved by any Kuki-Zo political or community leadership. He apologised on behalf of the Kuki-Zo community and demanded a fair, transparent and impartial investigation to identify those responsible.

The six Naga civilians were among hostages abducted during violence that erupted in Kangpokpi district on May 13. Their bodies were recovered on June 11, a day after 14 Kuki civilians, who had also been held captive, were released following negotiations involving community organisations and authorities.

While expressing remorse, the KZC alleged that the killing of 14 Kuki-Zo civilians, including three pastors, and attacks on Kuki-Zo villages since March had not received the same level of investigative attention. The Council urged authorities to ensure equal justice for all victims, irrespective of community.

The Council also criticised what it described as selective security operations and called for an impartial probe into all incidents of violence, saying balanced investigations were essential to restoring trust and promoting reconciliation.

The cases relating to the killing of the six Naga civilians and the murder of three church leaders in Kangpokpi have already been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for investigation, according to Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh.