PRO refutes ITLF claims on pact at KIC
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 22 2025: While rebutting the news report headlined 'Total Shutdown over Langchingmanbi Killing Called Off' published in this daily's June 22 edition, the PRO Defence Wing said the article portrayed a false narrative and the content published regarding the Indian Army was entirely baseless and fabricated.

"Indian Army is neither responsible for the events nor has it made any agreement with anyone," the PRO clarified in a statement issued Sunday.

It also said that publication of such false information appears to be a deliberate attempt to malign the image of the security forces and incite unrest among local communities.

Mention may be made that as per an ITLF statement, an agreement was arrived at Saturday at Kuki Inpi Churachandpur (KIC) complex in the presence of Churachandpur DC, representing the state authority, and leaders of the ITLF, acting on behalf of the victim's family.

According to the agreement, the Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) Battalion deployed under the 57 Mountain Division had formally admitted guilt and acknowledged responsibility for the act that led to the death of Hoikholhing Haokip.

The army unit also agreed to settle the matter in accordance with local customary law and to perform rites and rituals locally known as Hemkham, mandated under the customary law.

Accordingly, the unit produced several Hemkham materials and a compensation of Rs 10 lakh.

Upon receiving the full Hemkham materials and compensation/ex-gratia, the victim's family formally endorsed the pact with the JAKLI as per customary norms.

With the agreement signed and compensation delivered, the total shutdown enforced across Churachandpur district was lifted.

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