TNL refutes allegations by Kuki CSOs Working Committee, denies presence of NSCN (IM) cadres
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, April 17 2026: The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has strongly refuted allegations made by the Working Committee of Kuki Civil Society Organisations (WCKCSOs), dismissing claims regarding the presence of NSCN (IM) cadres under Col Chipemi in Sinakeithel village of Ukhrul district.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Working Committee of TNL categorically denied the existence of any such individual in the village, terming the allegation baseless and fabricated.

It further criticised the WCKCSOs for allegedly creating false narratives using "made-up names" to mislead the public.

According to TNL, since the reported attacks on Sinakeithel village in late February by alleged Kuki armed cadres under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact and other militant groups, the village had initially been guarded by local volunteers.

Subsequently, in view of continued hostilities, security forces including the 131 Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) and personnel of the 4 Mahar Regiment were deployed in the area to safeguard civilians.

The TNL also alleged that Sinakeithel village has been subjected to repeated attacks by Kuki 500 group, Kuki militants, Kuki VVGs and narco-terrorists groups, overseen by an individual identified as Seipu Doungel from Dongsum Kuki village, who had allegedly issued threats against the village.

Highlighting security concerns, TNL stated that armed groups had been strengthening positions around Lungter Hills and transporting arms and personnel using the Leplen-Tingpibung road, which was initially permitted on humanitarian grounds.

However, the Sinakeithei Village Authority later withdrew access to the route through a Public Safety Order issued on March 12, 2026, citing risks of militant infiltration.

It also rejected allegations that village volunteers had opened fire on civilians escorted by security forces, terming such claims, "completely unfounded" .

Reiterating its stance, TNL maintained that the Tangkhul Naga community has remained defensive throughout the ongoing tensions, while accusing Kuki groups of initiating and escalating the conflict.

It further alleged that attempts were being made to portray Tangkhul Nagas as aggressors.

The statement concluded by asserting that those responsible for fuelling the conflict should not attempt to project themselves as victims, and called for truthful representation of the situation on the ground.

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