Imphal, Jan.19: The Foothills Naga Co-ordination Committee (FNCC) has formally informed the Government of Manipur that it will not participate in a meeting convened by the Commissioner (Home) on January 19, 2026, citing concerns over the government's handling of law-and-order issues, alleged failure to implement agreed commitments, and what it described as procedural lapses in the meeting invitation.
In a letter dated January 19, addressed to the Commissioner (Home), the FNCC stated that the decision was taken after extensive consultations with various joint tribes, tribal councils, and executive members. According to the committee, the prevailing circumstances made it inappropriate to attend the proposed meeting.
The organisation alleged that the Manipur government had failed to implement a three-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on August 8, 2025, despite earlier assurances. The committee maintained that the commitments contained in the agreement had not been fulfilled and expressed dissatisfaction over what it described as the government's lack of action in implementing the terms of the MoU.
The FNCC also raised concerns over the government's response to recent incidents, particularly those that occurred in Ireng on January 11 and 12, 2026. In its letter, the committee alleged that instead of initiating legal proceedings against those allegedly responsible for the incidents, the authorities had opted to invite the affected parties for negotiations.
Referring to the reported events in Ireng, the committee further claimed that threats had been issued against Ireng Naga Village on January 12, including alleged threats directed at residents and their property. The FNCC stated that such acts, if established, would constitute serious criminal offences under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and argued that they should be addressed through legal action rather than dialogue alone.
The committee further criticised the manner in which the meeting invitation was issued. According to the FNCC, the invitation was received through WhatsApp only on January 18, one day before the scheduled meeting. It also pointed out that the communication reportedly contained errors, including an incorrect meeting year, which it described as reflecting negligence and administrative carelessness.
The FNCC stated that these issues had reinforced what it perceives as a lack of impartiality and seriousness on the part of the authorities in dealing with matters affecting the Naga community.
Reiterating its commitment to the rule of law, the committee said it would be willing to reconsider engagement with the government only after those responsible for the reported incidents are brought to justice and the provisions of the August 8, 2025 MoU are implemented "in letter and spirit."
The letter was signed by FNCC Secretary Robin Kabui.
At the time of filing this report, no official response from the Government of Manipur regarding the allegations and concerns raised by the FNCC was available.
