IMPHAL: The Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B) has strongly denied allegations linking the outfit to the reported arson incidents in Namlee, Choro and Wanglee villages in Manipur’s Kamjong district, terming the accusations “false and malicious” and accusing sections of the media of irresponsible reporting without evidence.
In a clarification issued today by the Office of the Kuki National Organisation (KNO), Government of Kuki State, the group said reports blaming KNA-B for the incidents were aimed at tarnishing its image and creating further instability in the already fragile region.
The statement asserted that KNA-B was not involved in any activities within Indian territory and maintained that the organisation’s mission remained focused on restoring democracy in Myanmar. The outfit stated that several media outlets had attempted to drag its name into the controversy without credible facts or proof, which it said was fuelling paranoia and tension among communities.
Referring to the sensitive situation in the border areas, the organisation appealed to communities in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts to avoid escalating the incidents into an ethnic conflict. It reiterated its call for peace and dialogue among all parties in the region and stressed the need for restraint amid rising tensions.
The statement also carried a warning against what it described as attempts to provoke or malign the group. It said its “strategic patience” should not be mistaken for weakness and suggested that continued allegations and hostility could have serious consequences for peace in the region.
In a sharply worded remark, the outfit stated that it refused to interfere in what it called the “internal rot” of its neighbour’s affairs, while cautioning against dragging it into “petty shadow wars.” The organisation further claimed that history had shown that such actions eventually undermine peace and stability.
The KNA-B further urged the Tangkhul community to refrain from spreading what it described as “cheap and baseless information” and instead uphold the truth. The statement was issued by the Ministry of Information and Publicity under the KNO.
