Churachandpur, Jan 17: The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has expressed profound grief and outrage over the death of Nengtinlhing Haokip (20), a Kuki-Zo woman, describing the incident as a tragic reminder of the violence that has marked the ethnic conflict in Manipur.
In a press release issued on Saturday, the ITLF stated that Nengtinlhing was abducted during the initial phase of the violence from an ATM booth in New Checkon and was later subjected to severe abuse. She reportedly sustained serious physical injuries and deep psychological trauma and was left critically injured in Bishnupur. Though she survived initially and underwent treatment in Guwahati, she succumbed to her injuries on January 10, 2026, the statement said.
The ITLF alleged that her death reflects a broader pattern of violence faced by the Kuki-Zo community since the outbreak of the conflict, including killings, sexual violence, destruction of homes and places of worship, and forced displacement from the Imphal Valley. The forum reiterated its position that the prevailing conditions have made coexistence untenable and renewed its demand for a separate administrative arrangement to ensure safety, dignity, and survival of the Kuki-Zo people.
As a mark of respect and solidarity, the ITLF announced that it will organise a candlelight vigil in memory of Nengtinlhing Haokip on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 5:00 pm at the Wall of Remembrance. The forum has appealed to the public to join the vigil and stand in solidarity with victims of the ongoing violence.
The press release was issued by the Information and Publicity wing of the ITLF, Lamka, Outer Manipur.
