KKL refutes claims of former DG AR, seeks apology
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 12 2024:
The Kangleipak Kanba Lup (KKL), Manipur has expressed deep concern over the recent statements made by former Director General of Assam Rifles, Lt General PC Nair, during a discussion in News 9 on the sensitive issue of the Kuki rocket/missile attack and drone bombings.
In a release, KKL said that despite multiple eyewitness accounts confirming these incidents, the former DG's comments denying the attacks appear not only misleading but also dismissive of the gravity of the situation.
"At such a critical time, it is disheartening to hear a responsible ex-serviceman make statements that disregard the facts and the experiences of those directly affected.
These remarks have sparked further unrest and disappointment among the Meetei community, who continue to endure the impact of the ongoing tensions", it added.
Appealing to the former DG to issue a clarification and extend an apology to the Meetei community for his biased and inaccurate remarks, KKL asserted that this is not the time for divisive rhetoric but for responsible statements that promote peace, truth and healing in the society.
The KKL also highlighted that in recent times, the Meetei villages have been under repeated attacks by Kuki terrorists, resulting in the tragic deaths of innocent civilians.
"These terrorists have employed drones and missiles in attacks across various valley districts of Manipur.
In one such attack, a women was killed by a drone bombing in Imphal West district while her daughter and several others were injured.
In another horrific incident, an elderly man lost his life to a rocket/ missile strike in Moirang, Bishnupur district, while preparing for a ritual ceremony at the home of a former Chief Minister of Manipur, a renowned freedom fighter in the Indian National Army.
Several others were also wounded.
Similarly, another elderly civilian was killed in Jiribam district while he slept in his own house", it added.
The KKL continued that despite these relentless acts of violence by Kuki terrorists targeting Meetei civilians, no substantial action has been taken by the Central Government, even though many of these attacks reportedly occurred in the presence of central forces.
"These examples stand as undeniable proof of the sophisticated weapons used by Kuki militants to terrorize Meetei villages", it added.
The KKL alleged that the former DG of Assam Rifles has not only distorted the reality on the ground but has also cast doubts on the credibility of security forces, revealing their questionable stance on the ongoing conflict.
"The Meetei community deserves respect, transparency and a responsible approach from authorities and those in leadership positions.
It is imperative that such sensitive issues be addressed with care, ensuring that all voices are heard and that the truth prevails", said KKL.