In June 6 press statement, KIM cites “documented collusion” with Meitei groups, slams alleged genocidal rhetoric by NSCN-IM leader VS Atem; says continued tolerance “impossible” amid systematic killings
Edited by: Kimbawinu Vaiphei, Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi, June 6, 2026
The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) on Friday issued a sharp rejoinder to the NSCN-IM’s rebuttal dated June 5, rejecting it as “an exercise in denial and evasion” and reiterating allegations of collusion between NSCN-IM elements and Meitei radical groups in attacks on Kuki villages.
In press statement no. 04/KIM/PR/25-42, released from its Secretariat in Lamka, KIM said its June 5 statement was not “fabrication,” “misinformation,” or an “opportunistic exploitation of human tragedy.” The apex body of Kuki tribes called the statement a “factual record of documented collusion between NSCN-IM elements and Meitei radical groups, including arms supply, safe havens, and direct participation in attacks on Kuki villages,” which it said was supported by survivor testimonies and ground evidence.
KIM stated that while it respects the right of any people, including Nagas, to pursue self-determination through “honourable and legitimate means,” it “will not tolerate any campaign conducted in the name of self-determination that results in the systematic killing, displacement, and suffering of the Kuki people.” The organization said recent conduct of NSCN-IM, particularly its Manipur factions, has “rendered continued tolerance impossible.”
It singled out senior NSCN-IM leader VS Atem, alleging he had “publicly used genocidal language, describing Kukis as ‘cockroaches’ to be exterminated.” KIM added that “such rhetoric has no place in any responsible movement claiming revolutionary credentials.” According to the statement, NSCN-IM’s actions, including “collusion with Meitei radical groups, disruption of the Kuki struggle for justice, and targeted violence, reveal an agenda that goes far beyond self-determination.” KIM called upon the NSCN-IM to “immediately cease these activities and refrain from further incitement.”
“The Kuki people remain committed to peace with honour, but we will resolutely defend our lives, lands, and dignity,” the statement concluded. The press note was issued by Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary, Information & Publicity, Kuki Inpi Manipur.
The rejoinder follows escalating tension after the June 5 pre-dawn attack on Loibol Khullen village in Kangpokpi district, where three Kuki civilians were killed and seven houses torched. Kuki organizations had accused NSCN-IM and allied groups of involvement, which NSCN-IM denied in its June 5 rebuttal. KIM said it values “historical neighbourly ties with the Naga people” but maintained that the alleged conduct of NSCN-IM’s Manipur factions has strained relations.
