Imphal, Oct. 20 -- The Joint Tribes Council (JTC), representing the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme communities, has demanded an independent investigation into the killing of three Meitei civilians at Sunurok Uyok, Khongbal Tangkhul, on October 19, alleging the involvement of Kuki militants covered by the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.

In a statement issued on October 19, the council said several other people were seriously injured in the incident, which reportedly occurred around 9:30 am. It called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, irrespective of their affiliation or SoO status.

The deceased were identified as Arubam Ronil, 30, son of Raja, from Nongshum village; Lairenlakpam Inaobi, 50, son of L. Tombi...