Ukhrul: The Kuki CSO Working Committee (WCKCSOs), Ukhrul, has issued a detailed clarification and rebuttal addressing allegations and public remarks surrounding the April 18 incident in which two lives were lost, urging restraint and responsible public discourse amid rising tensions.
In a statement released on Monday, the committee strongly refuted claims made by Mr. Sword Vashum and dismissed what it described as a growing wave of misinformation linked to the incident. Expressing condolences over the loss of lives, the committee emphasized the need for fact-based discussions and cautioned against rhetoric that could escalate tensions.
The WCKCSOs categorically denied any involvement of the Kuki community in the alleged ambush on April 18. It termed attempts to assign collective blame without credible evidence as “baseless and dangerous,” warning that such narratives unfairly target an entire community and risk deepening divisions. The committee also rejected allegations that Kukis had “imposed war” on any group, calling such claims misleading and inflammatory.
Taking exception to statements made by Mr. Vashum, the committee described his remarks as provocative and ill-timed. It noted that during the initial phase of unrest in the Litan Sarei Khong area, when Kuki civil society groups were actively engaging with Tangkhul CSOs to de-escalate tensions, Mr. Vashum had remained absent. The statement criticized his recent rhetoric, particularly references to possible retaliation within “3–4 days,” stating that such comments have aggravated an already volatile situation.
The committee further expressed concern over reported fresh attacks in Mongkot Chepu and Kuki villages around Sinakeithel, alleging that the situation had worsened following the controversial remarks. In light of these developments, it demanded that authorities take immediate cognizance and register a suo motu FIR against Mr. Vashum for statements it believes have contributed to instability and endangered civilian lives.
Addressing another contentious issue, the WCKCSOs rejected what it called a “misleading narrative” portraying Kukis as tenants under Tangkhul ownership in Ukhrul district. It asserted that Kuki villages in the region are government-recognized and supported by valid land records and village documentation. The committee maintained that administrative inclusion within a district does not equate to land ownership by any particular community, stressing that Kuki residents occupy land that is rightfully theirs.
Reaffirming its commitment to dialogue and peaceful coexistence, the committee, however, stated that it remains resolute in defending its people and villages if threatened. It emphasized that the safety, dignity, and security of the community are non-negotiable and any attempt to endanger them would be met with lawful and determined action.
