Tangkhul Naga Long Rejects Kuki CSOs Claims, Says No NSCN (IM) Cadre in Sinakeithei

Ukhrul, April 17: The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), Ukhrul Headquarters, has issued a press communiqué dismissing claims made by the Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations (WCKCSOs) regarding the alleged presence of NSCN (IM) cadres in Sinakeithei village, Ukhrul district.

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In the statement released on April 17, the TNL Working Committee stated that there is no individual named Col. Chipemi in Sinakeithei village, rejecting the allegations made by the Kuki CSOs. It also asserted that the claims were fabricated and intended to mislead the public.

According to the committee, Sinakeithei village has been facing repeated attacks from Kuki cadres operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, along with other alleged armed groups. The statement further claimed that the village has been guarded primarily by local volunteers since the attacks began in late February.

The committee also stated that security forces, including personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF) and the 4 Mahar Regiment, were later deployed in the area to protect civilians following continued tensions.

Addressing concerns about the Lepien–Tingbung road, the TNL Working Committee said the route was de-sanctioned by the Sinakeithei Village Authority through a Public Safety Order issued on March 12, 2026. The decision was reportedly taken to prevent the movement and infiltration of armed groups and to safeguard both Tangkhul Naga and Kuki civilians.

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The committee further clarified that village volunteers have only monitored movement along the road and have never opened fire on civilians escorted by security forces, dismissing such claims as “completely unfounded and false.”

The TNL Working Committee reiterated that the Tangkhul Naga community has maintained a defensive stance during the ongoing ethnic tensions, while accusing Kuki groups of repeatedly attacking Tangkhul areas.

The statement concluded by urging all parties to refrain from spreading misinformation and called for accountability in addressing the ongoing conflict in the region.