Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, March 17:
The Katho Katamnao Long (KKL) has issued a strongly worded press statement accusing the State Government of “blatant bias” and selective handling of the ongoing conflict situation in Manipur, warning that such actions are deepening communal divisions and endangering peace in the region.
In its statement, the KKL alleged that the present crisis stems from what it described as “war-mongering and barbaric acts” carried out on February 8, 2026, and criticized the government for failing to adopt a fair and balanced approach in addressing the fallout. The organization claimed that the State’s repeated “divisive handling” of sensitive issues has only aggravated tensions in an already volatile environment.
Citing a specific instance, the KKL questioned the State Government’s decision to swiftly hand over a recent case involving the deaths of two Kuki individuals to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). According to the statement, one of the deceased has not been verified as a resident of Thawai Kuki village, with the Thawai Village Authority reportedly confirming that the individual did not belong to the village and that questions remain regarding his citizenship.
“The haste with which the case was transferred to the NIA, without proper verification and groundwork, raises serious concerns about the intent and transparency of the State Government,” the statement said, suggesting that the move appeared to be an attempt to “wash its hands off responsibility.”
In contrast, the KKL highlighted what it described as the government’s silence over a separate incident in which 21 passengers traveling towards Ukhrul were allegedly abducted by Kuki militants. The passengers were reportedly released the following morning after being robbed of cash, valuables, and mobile phones. The organization expressed strong concern that no visible action has been taken to apprehend those responsible.
“Is the State Government too afraid to act against militant elements?” the statement questioned, adding that mere statements without concrete action undermine public confidence in governance and law enforcement.
The KKL also condemned an FIR filed against one Ashang Kasar by an individual identified as Lungoulen Guite, describing the complainant as a “self-styled representative” lacking legitimacy. The organization noted that the Thadou Students’ Association had already distanced itself from the complaint, calling it baseless. It further alleged that such actions were attempts to incite division and gain political mileage.
Raising serious allegations, the KKL also called for an independent inquiry into claims that Indian security forces and Kuki militants may be sharing bunkers in certain areas, including Shangkai village. The group urged the NIA to investigate the matter, stating that any such nexus would severely undermine the rule of law.
Additionally, the statement questioned the role and effectiveness of central security forces, particularly in light of their alleged failure to prevent the abduction of civilians. It criticized what it termed as “inaction despite deployment,” calling it a waste of public resources if forces fail to fulfill their primary duty of protecting citizens.
The KKL further accused the State Government of prioritizing certain communities while ignoring repeated incidents of alleged intimidation, including reports of frequent firing in villages such as Sinakeithei.
Warning of serious consequences, the organization stated that continued bias and neglect could compel communities to reconsider their relationship with the State. It urged the government to adopt an impartial approach and take immediate, decisive action to restore public trust and ensure justice for all.
The statement was issued by the Information and Publicity wing of the Katho Katamnao Long.