Naga insurgent group may be behind attacks on Assam Rifle personnel

Naga Insurgent Group Possibly Linked to Attacks on Assam Rifle Personnel

Naga insurgent group may be behind – Security forces suspect a splinter faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), known as NSCN(IM), operating from Myanmar’s Sagaing region, of carrying out recent attacks that killed three Assam Rifles personnel over the past week. Sources indicate that three individuals may be tied to the July 6 ambush, which prompted intelligence operations in areas such as TM Kasom, Litan, and Sikibung.

Clashes and Rivalry Fueling Tensions

The attacks are believed to be connected to the escalating Naga-Kuki conflict in Manipur, with internal disputes between the Eastern Flank and the main NSCN(IM) faction over control of Nagalim territories. The Eastern Flank, a breakaway group, has not signed a framework agreement with the central government, unlike its parent organization.

“An intelligence-driven operation has been launched in TM Kasom, Litan, and Sikibung to arrest those responsible for the July 6 ambush in Ukhrul district. Three persons have been detained,” stated the Manipur Police in an official report.

Leadership and Expulsion Context

Eastern Flank, led by HS Ramsan and A Raman, was expelled from the NSCN(IM) ten days before the July 6 attack. These two leaders, who hold the rank of retired lieutenant generals, were stripped of their titles, and their followers were ordered to report to the Camp Hebron headquarters in Nagaland.

Analysts note that the use of low-to-medium-intensity explosive devices mirrors tactics typically seen in attacks by groups like ULFA, Naxals, and certain Meitei factions. A security official pointed out that Assam Rifles personnel had previously been ambushed on September 19, 2025, resulting in two deaths.

Strategic Moves in Conflict Zones

The ongoing Naga-Kuki clashes have intensified in areas such as Ukhrul, Senapati, and other Naga districts of Manipur, where NSCN(IM) and the Eastern Flank are already in direct conflict. A third officer suggested that the July 13 ambush in Nagaland—a stronghold of NSCN(IM)—might be a calculated effort by the Eastern Flank to shift security focus toward the main faction.

Eastern Flank’s actions could be aimed at asserting dominance in regions where the NSCN(IM) holds influence. While the group has accused the main NSCN(IM) of involvement in the July 6 attack, the July 13 incident may serve as a countermove to provoke targeted operations against them.

About the Author

Prawesh Lama, an Associate Editor at Hindustan Times with over two decades of experience covering conflict zones, border regions, and disaster areas across India, specializes in reporting on internal security, insurgency, and regional developments. His insights often highlight the complexities of the Northeast and Left-wing extremism in strategic locations like Manipur and Nagaland.