MLA Vungzagin Valte Returns to Manipur After Two Years of Treatment Following Brutal Attack

Aizawl, April 9, 2025 — Vungzagin Valte, Member of the Manipur Legislative Assembly from Thanlon Constituency, has returned to the Northeast after spending nearly two years bedridden and under intensive treatment in New Delhi. Valte, who was left severely injured in a mob attack in May 2023 during the early days of the Meitei-Kuki ethnic crisis, arrived at Lengpui Airport in Mizoram en route to his home state of Manipur.

Speaking to the media upon his arrival, Valte expressed deep anguish over the lack of support he received from the Manipur Assembly during his most critical period. He accused the former administration under Chief Minister N. Biren Singh of being “against the Zohnahthlak right from the beginning,” lamenting how his community — the Zo people — had been repeatedly marginalized despite being direct descendants of the region’s indigenous population.

“I received very little support from the Manipur Assembly during the hardest time of my life,” said Valte, who is now wheelchair-bound. He called for unity among the Zo people, urging them to “come together and stand united in the face of challenges.”

Valte’s arrival in Mizoram was necessitated by ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur. Kukis, including Valte, remain unable to safely enter Imphal or other valley regions. He was warmly received at the Lengpui Airport by H. Ginzalala, Adviser to Mizoram’s Chief Minister (Technical), and Roluahpuia, Vice President of the Mizo Students Union.

The violent attack on Valte occurred on May 4, 2023, shortly after he met then Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to appeal for peace on behalf of the Zohnahthlak community. On his return journey, a mob ambushed him near RIMS Road in Imphal West, inflicting life-threatening injuries that left one side of his face crushed and permanently damaged his left eye.

Valte was urgently airlifted to Delhi, where he spent several weeks on a ventilator at Apollo Hospital, relying on a feeding tube and receiving round-the-clock care. He has since been under long-term medical treatment, grappling with both physical and emotional trauma.

As part of his return journey to Manipur, a special chopper has been arranged to ensure his safe transport back to his home.

Source: NortheastLive