IMPHAL: Claiming responsibility over the the firing incident at Namlee, Wanglee and Choro villages in Kamjong district this morning, the Village Volunteers Eastern Zone (VVEZ) alleged the NSCN-IM’s Eastern Flank as solely responsible for what has happened in once peaceful district of Kamjong.
In a press statement issued today, VVEZ said it had exercised “utmost restraint” despite what it described as persistent intimidation and provocation in the region amid the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur. However, the group stated that the burning of Lanchah Kuki Village in Kamjong district on May 2 compelled it to respond.
According to the statement, VVEZ targeted members of the NSCN Eastern Flank and its allies in areas including Namlee, Wanglee and Choro villages. The group claimed that the opposing side retreated after a brief exchange of fire, adding that the operation was intended as a “clear message” to the NSCN Eastern Flank and its associates.
The organisation alleged that the actions of the NSCN-IM faction, particularly its Eastern Flank, formed part of a deliberate attempt to consolidate political influence and public support at the expense of innocent civilians, communal harmony and regional stability. It further claimed that Kuki villages and communities in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts had increasingly come under pressure due to such activities.
VVEZ also alleged that around 30 cadres of NSCN-K (YA) had been deployed in the Namlee and Kangkum areas in support of the NSCN Eastern Flank. In addition, the group claimed that Myanmar-based SNA elements had extended operational assistance in actions directed against the Kuki community.
Calling the developments a “dangerous expansion of instability,” the organisation urged authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incidents and the alleged involvement of armed groups operating in the border areas.
The statement reiterated that the Kuki community did not seek hostility with the Tangkhul community or any other community in the region. VVEZ maintained that peaceful coexistence, justice, mutual respect and regional stability remained in the collective interest of all communities inhabiting the area.
At the same time, the group warned that continued acts of aggression, intimidation and violence could further destabilise inter-community relations and deepen tensions in the already volatile hill districts of Manipur.
The statement further asserted that VVEZ remained committed to safeguarding the security, dignity, legitimate rights and ancestral lands of Kuki people residing in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts. It also urged the NSCN Eastern Flank to immediately cease what it termed targeted campaigns and hostile actions against the Kuki community.
