Naga Body Seeks Probe Into Fires, Warns of Retaliation

SENAPATI — The Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), Senapati, has expressed concern over what it described as repeated incidents involving Taphou Kuki village and called for an impartial investigation into recent fires.

In a press release dated August 24, the NPO said a residential building belonging to a Poumai Naga was set on fire, while an abandoned building at Taphou Kuki was also reportedly burned by unidentified persons.

The organisation alleged that firefighters were obstructed by Taphou Kuki villagers while attempting to extinguish the blaze and prevent further damage. It questioned why the firefighters would have been prevented from carrying out their duties if the villagers had no involvement in the incident.

The NPO also questioned the basis for blaming Naga people for the incidents, noting that the two buildings — one belonging to a Naga and the other to a Kuki — were reportedly burned at the same time.

The organisation urged law-enforcement agencies to closely monitor such incidents, conduct objective investigations and identify and prosecute those responsible according to law.

The NPO said the people of Senapati had exercised maximum restraint but warned that continued incidents could lead to a reaction if, in its words, Taphou Kuki villagers continued to “play with the pulse and sentiment” of the Senapati public.