IMPHAL, Jan 19: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has rejected media reports alleging harassment and extortion of the Rajasthan School Wushu team during their return journey from Imphal after the 69th National School Games, describing the claims as unverified and misleading.
In a statement issued on January 19, CoTU said that no such incident has been reported to any police station, security control room or law enforcement agency in Manipur so far. It noted that given the prevailing security situation in the state, any serious incident involving a school team would normally trigger an immediate official response and formal documentation.
The organisation pointed out that there has been no registration of an FIR, General Diary entry or formal complaint in connection with the alleged incident. It also said that the team authorities or parents have not provided basic details such as the exact location, time, route or police jurisdiction where the incident is said to have occurred, making verification difficult.
CoTU further expressed concern over reports identifying the alleged perpetrators as “Kuki militants” without supporting evidence. It questioned how such ethnic identification was made in the absence of specific indicators such as language, attire or other distinguishing features. Warning that the circulation of unverified claims and ethnic labelling could create misunderstanding and tension, the committee urged the media to exercise caution and verify facts thoroughly before publication.
Meanwhile, amid allegations of mismanagement, security lapses and extortion levelled by members of the Rajasthan school Wushu team, the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports (YAS), Manipur, said no complaint was received from the team during their stay in the state. However, he added that an inquiry has been initiated and police have been asked to verify the allegations.
The Rajasthan contingent, comprising 52 players, had an impressive outing at the national-level event, with the girls’ team securing first place and the boys’ team finishing second. After leaving Manipur, some players and parents alleged inadequate travel arrangements, claiming that only 24 unconfirmed train tickets were provided, forcing several athletes to travel under distressing conditions.
Responding to the claims, the YAS Director said that had the grievances been raised during the team’s stay, immediate action could have been taken, including lodging an FIR in case of extortion. Despite the absence of a formal complaint, he said, the matter is being examined.
Separately, Dr Mayengbam Veto Singh has written to the Superintendent of Police, Imphal West, seeking verification of information circulating on social media regarding alleged extortion during travel from Dimapur to Imphal. He urged the police to take appropriate legal action, if warranted, in connection with a video clip reportedly posted by members of the Rajasthan contingent.
