SENAPATI, March 7: The Kuki Students’ Organisation, Delhi & NCR (KSOD&NCR), has issued a rebuttal to the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) over allegations related to the actions of security forces in Manipur, as reported by The Mokokchung Times on March 5, 2025. The KSOD&NCR expressed concern that the NESO’s statements, if left unaddressed, could lead to further misunderstandings and exacerbate tensions in the region. While acknowledging NESO’s commitment to peace and stability in the Northeast, the KSOD&NCR identified inconsistencies in NESO’s approach that they believe require clarification.
The KSOD&NCR clarified that the allegations raised by the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), which NESO referred to in its statement, have been refuted by multiple credible civil society organizations. These include the Kuki Students’ Organisation Sadar Hills (KSO Sadar Hills), the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), and the Kuki-Zo Council. The KSOD&NCR argued that these organizations had provided factual clarity, asserting that the allegations were unfounded and posed a risk of escalating tensions rather than promoting peace. The KSOD&NCR emphasized that it was crucial for all parties to thoroughly verify information before spreading claims that could contribute to further discord.
The KSOD&NCR also expressed concern over what they perceive as a selective approach by NESO in addressing regional issues. According to KSOD&NCR, NESO’s recent statements reflected a biased focus on particular concerns, undermining the credibility of its advocacy for justice and peace. They noted that security forces in the region, such as the Assam Rifles, have previously faced accusations of involvement with insurgent groups like the Th. Muivah-led NSCN-IM. The KSOD&NCR pointed out that NESO has been notably silent on these allegations, raising questions about its impartiality in addressing issues that affect all communities in the region.
Another point of contention was NESO’s silence on the issues faced by Kuki students. The KSOD&NCR highlighted that many Kuki students in Manipur have been victims of targeted violence and discrimination. These students, particularly at institutions like Manipur University, have been forced to flee their hostels after raids, leaving them to abandon their studies and, in some cases, lose valuable educational certificates due to the ongoing conflict. The KSOD&NCR noted that despite the well-documented nature of these incidents, NESO has not addressed the plight of Kuki students, which the organization believes undermines NESO’s claim to represent the interests of all students in the region.
The KSOD&NCR called on NESO to adopt a more balanced, fact-based, and impartial approach in its advocacy. “Advocacy should not be driven by selective interests but should be rooted in a genuine commitment to truth and justice for all communities,” stated the organization. They urged NESO to engage in meaningful dialogue rather than promoting narratives that deepen existing divisions. According to the KSOD&NCR, such dialogue is critical for fostering unity, peace, and long-term stability in Manipur and the Northeast.
The KSOD&NCR concluded by expressing disheartenment over what they perceive as NESO’s alignment with individuals holding anti-Kuki sentiments, which, they believe, may be exploited for political purposes. They called for the student organization to ensure fairness and inclusivity in its advocacy.
“We urge NESO to adopt a holistic and unbiased approach, addressing all concerns without selective outrage,” the KSOD&NCR said. The organization reiterated that only through genuine neutrality and a commitment to truth could peace and unity be achieved in the region. The KSOD&NCR expressed hope that NESO would reflect on its stance and take a more inclusive approach in addressing the ongoing challenges in Manipur.
