The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has accused the NSCN-IM of recruiting Zeliangrong youths under the guise of “volunteers” and operating multiple illegal check posts along National Highway-37, alleging that the activities are aimed at creating division and extorting money from commuters.
In a press statement issued by its Secretary of Information and Publicity, Louis Gangmei, the ZUF alleged that the NSCN-IM, in collusion with the Kamson group and certain individuals and organisations, has been attempting to recruit Zeliangrong youths in the name of a conflict with Kuki groups. The outfit claimed that the move was intended to create confusion, fear and division among the Zeliangrong community.
The ZUF further alleged that such activities were undermining the unity, progress and political aspirations of the Zeliangrong people and disrupting efforts to maintain peace and communal harmony in the region.
Claiming that it has verified the existence of six to seven illegal check posts along NH-37, the outfit alleged that NSCN-IM cadres and their associates were forcibly collecting money and goods from transporters, commuters and other civilians. It described the alleged extortion as a deliberate attempt to spread fear and hardship among the public.
The outfit maintained that since its inception it had worked to promote peace, unity and peaceful coexistence among communities in Manipur, and accused anti-social elements of attempting to destabilise Zeliangrong-inhabited areas in pursuit of what it termed the “expansionist interests” of the NSCN-IM.
Warning of action against those allegedly associated with the NSCN-IM and the Kamson group in Zeliangrong areas, the ZUF said it would “flush out” what it described as anti-Zeliangrong elements operating in the region. It further warned that individuals or groups found collaborating with the two organisations would be held responsible for the consequences of their actions.
The outfit also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading provocative propaganda or misinformation on social media and reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives, property and dignity of the Zeliangrong people. It called on all communities to cooperate in maintaining peace and stability.