Chandel, October 3:
The Lamkangs have strongly protested the appointment of a Nepali as the village chief of Thamlapokpi in Chandel district, citing concerns over the protection of indigenous rights and traditions.
Beshang Tholung, a descendant of the village founder, late Th. Wangshul, condemned the appointment, calling it a violation of the identity, tradition, and constitutional rights of the Lamkang Nagas, a recognized indigenous tribe of Manipur.
According to Tholung, the Lamkang Naga Kvir Kunpun (LNKK), the apex body representing Lamkang interests, failed in its duty by allowing SK Lovemol, a Nepali by origin, to be recognized as the village chief.
“Leadership of a Lamkang village or any tribal village must remain within the indigenous bloodline. No outsider, whether Nepali or from any other background, can be recognized as a chief of a Lamkang or Naga village,” Tholung said.
He further stated that the appointment undermines the very foundation of Thamlapokpi village and demanded that Lovemol resign immediately, calling his claim to the title “null and void.”
The controversy comes amid heightened tensions following the disappearance of two Lamkang youths, SS Simeal (32) and Th. Jimreev (33), who went missing after leaving Dimapur on September 18. The LNKK has accused rival groups of involvement and warned of intensified agitation if the youths are not found within five days.
Tholung also warned that failure to take corrective measures could lead to democratic agitations by the Lamkangs and other indigenous groups, including highway blockades along NH-102.
“The land of Thamlapokpi belongs to the Lamkangs. It cannot be sold, transferred, or handed over to outsiders. Any attempt to distort this reality will face strong resistance,” he asserted.
