Special Correspondent
Hebron/Ukhrul, February 25:
In a strongly worded statement titled “When the Truth Hurts,” the Ministry of Information and Publicity of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN) levelled serious allegations against the Government of India, accusing Indian security forces and Kuki armed groups of involvement in the February 8 incident at Litan in Ukhrul district.
The statement described the incident as a “premeditated aggression” targeting Tangkhul Nagas and alleged that the violence was intended to weaken the Naga political movement. It further claimed that certain Kuki groups operating under the Suspension of Operations arrangement were allowed operational freedom and access to resources, which, according to the GPRN, contributed to heightened tensions in the area.
The GPRN also questioned the conduct of the Assam Rifles during operations in the region, alleging partiality and overreach. It contended that the actions of security personnel amounted to violations of established norms governing conflict situations. However, these allegations remain unverified, and no independent fact-finding report has been made public so far.
Security agencies and state authorities have not issued a detailed response to the specific claims raised in the statement at the time of filing this report.
The GPRN, which is associated with factions of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN), reiterated its longstanding position that the Naga political issue predates the current ethnic tensions in Manipur. It asserted that any lasting resolution must address what it described as historical and political rights of the Naga people.
The statement also referred to the 2015 Framework Agreement signed between the Government of India and the NSCN leadership, suggesting that unresolved commitments have contributed to mistrust in Naga-inhabited areas. While the contents of the agreement have not been made fully public, it has remained a central reference point in ongoing peace negotiations.
Observers note that the language used in the GPRN statement reflects the depth of grievances and mistrust among various communities in Manipur’s hill districts. The region has witnessed recurring tensions linked to overlapping territorial claims, insurgent activity, and stalled political dialogue.
Residents of Ukhrul district report a climate of anxiety following recent incidents involving armed movement, arson, and security operations. Civil society organisations have appealed for restraint from all sides, urging insurgent groups, security forces, and community leaders to prioritise civilian safety and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
Analysts caution that unverified allegations and counter-allegations can aggravate an already fragile situation. They stress the importance of transparent investigation mechanisms to establish facts and prevent misinformation from escalating tensions further.
Community leaders in Ukhrul have also called for renewed dialogue and impartial enforcement of law and order. They maintain that accountability for any acts of violence, irrespective of the perpetrators, is essential to rebuilding trust.
The release of the GPRN’s statement highlights the continuing volatility in Manipur’s hill districts. As competing narratives circulate and official clarifications remain limited, many residents hope that credible inquiries and sustained political engagement will help restore calm.
For now, uncertainty persists in Ukhrul and adjoining areas, with calls growing louder for transparency, reconciliation, and a peace process that addresses the concerns of all affected communities.
“When the Truth Hurts”: GPRN alleges Litan aggression, seeks international attention
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