Imphal: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), has accused Indian security forces and Kuki militants of using “scorched-earth tactics” in Litan, Ukhrul district of Manipur, describing the attacks as a “symbol of aggression against the Naga Nation.”
In a statement to the media, the NSCN (IM) alleged that a minor altercation—where Kuki individuals reportedly beat a Tangkhul Naga youth was exploited as a pretext to target Tangkhul homes. The outfit said the narrative presented by Kuki organisations regarding the Litan incident “does not reflect the truth,” and called the alleged involvement of security forces “appalling.”
The violence, which occurred between February 8 and February 10, reportedly destroyed around 50 houses and several government quarters in Litan Sareikhong village and surrounding areas under the Litan police station’s jurisdiction.
The NSCN (IM) further alleged that security personnel were seen actively participating alongside Kuki militants, with some reportedly wearing masks to hide their identities. The group claimed this indicates that the Kuki militants acted with the backing of security forces, allegedly receiving the “green signal” from India’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
The statement condemned the destruction as “premeditated arson committed by Kuki militants against the Tangkhul Nagas” and criticised the World Kuki-Zo Intellectual Council (WKZIC), accusing it of playing the victim and misleading the Prime Minister of India. According to the NSCN (IM), the reality involved collusion between security forces and Kuki militants, representing a “grave violation of human rights.”