Supreme Court Transfers NIA Cases to Guwahati, Puts Arambai Tenggol Chief Korounganba Khuman in Spotlight

The Supreme Court has transferred at least two National Investigation Agency (NIA) cases from Imphal to its Special Court in Guwahati, Assam, putting the Arambai Tenggol group and its leader, Korounganba Khuman, under heightened scrutiny. The apex court's order, issued on Tuesday, involved the transfer of eight criminal cases related to violent incidents in Manipur to the NIA's court in Guwahati.

According to the Imphal Free Press, two of the transferred FIRs directly implicate Khuman, the leader of the Arambai Tenggol group. The first case (NIA Case No RC-03/2024) was registered on February 9, 2024, following an attack on November 1, 2023. The NIA alleges that Khuman led a large group of armed Arambai Tenggol members, clad in camouflage, police uniforms, and black shirts, in a violent confrontation with local police. The group, reportedly acting on a call posted by Khuman on social media, attacked the Imphal East Police at the Palace Gate, fired at officers, and then escaped towards Imphal West. The case includes charges ranging from attempted murder to sedition under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and other sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The second case (NIA Case No RC-04/2024) also involves an attack on November 1, 2023, this time targeting the 1st Manipur Rifles Battalion in Imphal. The NIA charges that Khuman led a group of Arambai Tenggol members who attacked the facility, looted arms and ammunition, and ransacked government property. The group reportedly fled when security reinforcements arrived. The charges in this case include looting, arms smuggling, and several sections under the Arms Act and UAPA.

The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier directed the NIA to take over the investigations, and the arrest of one suspect, Mutum Rajesh Singh, further adds to the developments. Singh, 25, from Lilong Chajing Mamang Leikai, was arrested on November 30, 2023, in connection with both cases.

These cases are part of a broader investigation into violent activities linked to separatist groups in the region. The transfer of the cases to Guwahati's Special Court is seen as a move to expedite legal proceedings and ensure impartiality.