Imphal: The National Socialist Council of Nagaland – Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) on Monday rejected any involvement in the ambush on an Assam Rifles convoy in Ukhrul district that left two personnel dead, insisting it has no “Eastern Flank” and reaffirming its adherence to the ceasefire and the Indo‑Naga peace process.
In a release from Camp Hebron, the group said the attack in the Nungshang River area near Hungpung village “has no connection whatsoever with the NSCN/GPRN.” It also stated: “There exists no Eastern Flank in the Naga Army of the NSCN/GPRN.”
The statement underlined the organisation’s continued observance of the ceasefire with the Government of India. “The organisation remains firmly committed to the ceasefire agreement with the government of India and continues to uphold its responsibilities under the agreed ground rules,” it said, adding that it would not take actions that might derail the political talks. “The pursuit of an honourable and peaceful political solution remains the unwavering commitment of the NSCN/GPRN,” the release added.
The group urged restraint from all parties, warning that activities that sow mistrust could threaten gains made in the Indo‑Naga negotiations, as reported by Eastern Mirror.
Background: Naga Peace Process
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The Naga Peace Accord, signed between the NSCN and the Government of India in August 2015, sought to bring an end to decades of insurgency by factions demanding a Greater Nagalim, Naga sovereignty, a separate flag and a Naga constitution.
Ambush & Casualties
Local authorities said suspected militants opened fire on a convoy of 40 Assam Rifles in the Nungshang Khong area of Ukhrul around 1.30–2.00 pm on Monday. Two personnel — identified as Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and constable CM Singh, who was driving the vehicle, were shot.
“The two deceased include a warrant officer and a driver. They died on the spot. The incident occurred in Nungshang Khong area, located some 17 km from the district headquarters, under the Ukhrul Police Station limits, when the convoy was returning to the 40th Assam Rifles battalion headquarters at Sangshak,” a senior officer told PTI.
Security forces rushed to the scene, engaged the attackers and launched further operations. The site has been sealed off and a forensic team dispatched from Imphal to examine the area, the officer said. Additional troops have been sent to the district and search operations are under way to track down those responsible.
Political Response
Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh condemned the killings and extended condolences to the victims’ families, saying the state would not tolerate such brutality. “Culprits responsible for the murder will be arrested and punished as per the law of the land,” he said.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam also denounced the ambush, calling it an act that undermines peace and harmony in the violence‑hit state. In a post on X, he said, “I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate ambush on the convoy of the 40 Assam Rifles at Nungshang Kong in Ukhrul,” and expressed confidence that security forces would ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.