Central forces accused of inaction
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 16 2025: United Committee, Pukhao and Makeng Dolaithabi Gram Panchayat advisor Naorem Nageshore has accused the central security forces of failing to act appropriately when Kuki groups allegedly crossed the buffer zone and attacked Meetei farmers in Leitanpokpi, Imphal East district, on Sunday.

Expressing deep concern, Nageshore alleged that the Government of India may be using the Kukis as a tool to destabilize and disintegrate Manipur.

Addressing media persons at Manipur Press Club, here, on Monday, Nageshore stated that a major crisis erupted in Manipur on May 13, 2023, When Kuki youths backed by armed militants attacked the Meeteis.

According to Nageshore, the violence began when the Kukis initiated attacks with the intent to carve out their own territory.

He asserted that the Meeteis have never attacked the Kukis and have only acted in self-defence.

Nageshore further criticised the role of the central security forces during the ongoing conflict, which has now entered the third year.

He alleged that the central forces have repeatedly shown bias, often siding with the Kukis in various incidents.

He added that this partiality and unsatisfactory conduct by the central forces remain unchanged to this day.

Referring to the recent incident at Leitanpokpi, Nageshore stated that when local farmers went to plough their fields, Kuki civilians crossed the buffer zone and attacked the Meetei farmers using slingshots and pelting stones.

Following the attack, the villagers appealed to the police, including the Imphal East Superintendent of Police, the Commanding Officer of the Assam Rifles and the Deputy Inspector General of the BSF, to launch combing operations.

In response, army personnel conducted searches in Kuki-dominated areas.

However, Nageshore expressed disappointment that no Kuki individuals were arrested or legal action taken, despite their presence confirmed during the operations.

He described the inaction of the central security forces as deeply unfortunate and said it continues to erode public trust.

He further stated that the Leitanpokpi incident has only strengthened public suspicion that the central security forces may be using the Kuki community as a tool to destabilise and disintegrate Manipur.

He pointed put that it is now imperative for both the central and state governments, along with the Governor and the security advisor, to take firm steps to "prevent such incidents in the future.

Failure to do so, he warned, could lead to a worsening of the already volatile situation.

Nageshore also urged the authorities to demonstrate that the rule of law applies equally across Manipur, including in the hill areas, and not just in the valley.

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