Who Was the Thadou Community Leader Killed After the Manipur Peace Dialogue?
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Synopsis
The assassination of Nehkam Jomhao, a Thadou community leader who actively participated in peace dialogues in Manipur, has sparked outrage and raised concerns about safety and reconciliation in the region. His tragic death highlights the dangers faced by those advocating for peace amidst ongoing ethnic tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Nehkam Jomhao was a key figure in the Thadou community.
- He participated in important peace dialogues in Manipur.
- His murder has raised serious concerns about safety for peace advocates.
- Six individuals have been arrested in connection with his death.
- The Thadou community has expressed outrage and called for justice.
Guwahati, Aug 31 (NationPress) A prominent leader of the Thadou community in Assam was tragically killed by suspected militants after being abducted from his residence in Karbi Anglong district, police reported on Sunday. The victim, identified as Nehkam Jomhao (59), was the chairman of the Thadou Literature Society, Assam. He was forcibly taken from his home in Chonghang Veng in the Manja region around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and was later murdered, according to officials.
Karbi Anglong Superintendent of Police Sanjib Saikia confirmed the arrest of six suspects related to this incident. “The accused admitted to the murder, although the body has not yet been found. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind this heinous act,” Saikia informed IANS.
Jomhao participated in a historic peace meeting in Imphal on August 6, where the Thadou Inpi Manipur, the apex civil society organization of the Thadou tribe, engaged with Meitei organizations. This marked the first time since the beginning of the Manipur conflict that representatives from the Thadou community entered the Meitei-majority Imphal Valley for reconciliation.
The killing has sparked outrage among Thadou organizations. The Thadou Students’ Association – General Headquarters condemned it as a “cold-blooded murder,” claiming Jomhao was targeted for his courageous stance for peace.
“Nehkam Jomhao fell victim due to his bold involvement in the Imphal peace dialogue. His advocacy for reconciliation angered Kuki militants and other anti-peace factions opposed to dialogue and understanding. This cowardly act silenced a visionary who advocated for harmony and respect among all communities,” the student organization stated.
The organization also honored Jomhao’s lifelong contributions to Thadou language, literature, and cultural identity, recognizing his role as a cultural guardian and peacemaker. “His death signifies not only the loss of an individual but a collective tragedy for the Thadou community. We have lost a fatherly figure and a martyr whose sacrifice will be a landmark in our pursuit of justice, peace, and identity,” the statement further emphasized.
The police continue their investigation to determine if the murder was directly linked to his involvement in the peace process.
Meanwhile, community leaders are urging authorities to ensure justice and prevent any further attempts to disrupt reconciliation efforts in Manipur.
Point of View
I find the killing of Nehkam Jomhao deeply troubling, highlighting the extreme risks faced by peace advocates in conflict zones. Our commitment remains to report on these issues with integrity, ensuring that the voices of those striving for reconciliation are heard and that justice is pursued diligently.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Nehkam Jomhao?
Nehkam Jomhao was a prominent leader of the Thadou community in Assam and the chairman of the Thadou Literature Society, Assam. He was actively involved in peace dialogues aimed at reconciling ethnic tensions in Manipur.
What happened to Nehkam Jomhao?
He was abducted from his home in Karbi Anglong district and later found murdered, with police arresting six individuals in connection with the case.
What was the context of his murder?
Jomhao's murder is believed to be linked to his participation in peace talks in Manipur, where he engaged with Meitei organizations to promote reconciliation.
What have community leaders said about this incident?
Community leaders have condemned the murder as a cowardly act against a peace advocate and have called for justice and ongoing efforts to maintain reconciliation in the region.
How has the Thadou community reacted?
The Thadou Students’ Association described the killing as a cold-blooded murder and emphasized Jomhao's contributions to peace, literature, and cultural identity.
