Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, April 11:
The Tangkhul Naga Foothills’ Organization (TNFO) has challenged the statement issued by Kuki CSO Ukhrul, questioning the legitimacy and intent behind what it described as a premature and unverified narrative surrounding the death of a BSF personnel during the Mongkot Chepu firing incident.
The statement, released by the Central Working Committee, Media, Information and Publicity wing of the TNFO expressed surprise that a civil society organization would issue claims on behalf of a central security force even before any official clarification from the Border Security Force (BSF).
According to the rebuttal, if a BSF personnel was injured and later succumbed to his wounds, it remains solely the responsibility of the BSF to release verified facts through official channels. The organization stated that the hurried attribution of blame to Tangkhul Naga groups raises serious concerns regarding credibility and intent, suggesting that such actions risk shaping public perception before an impartial investigation is conducted.
The statement emphasized that central forces are mandated to function with neutrality and professionalism, serving the broader interests of peace and security for all communities. Any attempt to portray these forces as aligned with one side, it warned, undermines institutional integrity and weakens public confidence.
Citing ground reports, the organization claimed that the deceased BSF jawan, identified as Mithun Mandal, was positioned near Mongkot Chepu facing east toward Sharkaphung when he was allegedly shot from behind. This, the statement argued, indicates that the firing originated from the western direction, reportedly from areas suspected to be occupied by Kuki militant bunkers. The group alleged that the incident could have been an attempt to disrupt a peaceful public gathering underway at the time.
The rebuttal also dismissed claims that a red-roofed “Pharmila house” was used by Tangkhul village volunteers, clarifying that the premises are occupied by Manipur state forces and would not engage in unprovoked firing. Likewise, allegations regarding the existence of a bunker at Kholkai hilltop were termed baseless.
Condemning the reported attack around 4:46 PM that resulted in the BSF jawan’s death, the organization described the killing of a central security personnel as deeply unfortunate and damaging to ongoing peace efforts in the Litan–Sharkaphung region.
Calling for restraint and responsibility, the statement demanded a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation to establish the truth and ensure justice, while urging all groups to refrain from spreading unverified information that could further escalate tensions.