UNC Declares 24-Hour Shutdown Across Naga Areas

Imphal, August 14, 2026: The United Naga Council (UNC) has declared an Emergency Total Shutdown across all Naga districts and Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur from 11:00 PM on August 14 to 11:00 PM on August 15, 2026, following what it described as a “barbaric and calculated attack” allegedly carried out by KNF-P Kuki militants on the occasion of Naga Independence Day.

According to a press statement issued by the UNC on August 14, four Naga village guards were targeted in the attack. Wiriliangbou Chawang, 35, was shot dead on the spot, while Kawlding Abnomal, 54, succumbed to abdominal injuries on the way to hospital.

The other two victims were identified as Namthibulungbou Primai, 45, who sustained groin injuries, and Maliangjanong Abnomal, 50, who sustained chest and arm injuries.

The UNC said the violence on Naga Independence Day was a direct challenge to the Naga people, their identity and their right to self-determination.

The council also expressed concern over what it described as recurring incidents of arson, provocation and obstruction in the region in recent days. It specifically referred to the August 11 attack on Tokpa Naga Village, where it said at least 10 houses were reportedly set ablaze.

The UNC further raised concerns over questions surrounding the Kailenjeng incident and the alleged obstruction of security forces and goodwill missions, saying such acts were creating conflict, confusion and fear among the people.

Condemning violence, arson and what it termed “on-purpose provocation”, the UNC called on the competent authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, identify those responsible and take appropriate legal action without delay.

The shutdown, the UNC said, has been declared in solidarity with the bereaved families and in vehement resentment against the alleged attacks.

During the shutdown, all shops, business establishments, offices, institutions and non-essential activities will remain closed. However, medical, fire and other essential emergency services will be exempted.

The UNC appealed to the public to extend full cooperation and observe the shutdown in a disciplined and peaceful manner. It also urged Naga citizens to remain calm, united and peaceful, stating that the Naga people should not be misled by unverified narratives or sensational reports.

The statement said the UNC had exercised maximum restraint but would not remain silent in the face of what it described as hostility and attacks against the Naga people.