DIMAPUR, Feb 24 (Newmai News Network): The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) (NSCN-IM) has levelled serious allegations against the Government of India, accusing it of backing Kuki militant groups and initiating what it termed a “calculated aggression” against the Naga community.

In a statement issued on Monday, the outfit claimed that February 8, 2026 marked the beginning of a planned offensive targeting Tangkhul Nagas in Litan, Ukhrul district. It alleged that the Centre used Kuki militants to undermine the Naga political cause and described the situation in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur as deeply disturbing.

The NSCN-IM further questioned the role of the Assam Rifles during security operations in the region, asking why personnel reportedly covered their faces while acting against Tangkhul civilians. It alleged that security forces acted beyond their mandate and accused them of siding with Kuki armed groups during recent unrest, including the reported burning incident in Litan.

Citing provisions of international humanitarian law, the group claimed that security forces had crossed the line from law enforcement to active involvement in hostilities. It also alleged logistical and financial backing to Kuki militant groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to the NSCN-IM, Kuki armed groups under SoO — including KNO and UPF — continue to receive stipends and are allowed to move with arms despite alleged violations of the ground rules. It further claimed that these groups are pursuing a separate administrative arrangement in the form of a Union Territory or similar structure, without consultation with Naga and Meitei stakeholders.

The outfit alleged that Kuki militant organisations such as KNO/KNA, KNF and KRA have been operating against the NSCN in coordination with Indian security agencies. It questioned the rationale behind continuing the SoO arrangement, asking why the Government requires such an agreement if the groups are not acting against the State.

The statement also accused certain Kuki writers and intellectuals of distorting historical narratives to suit present-day political objectives. It dismissed claims linking the Kukis to the “lost tribes of Israel” and described such assertions as unfounded.

On the broader political question, the NSCN-IM alleged that the Government of India lacks sincerity in addressing the Naga issue and is using Kuki groups as a counterweight to Naga aspirations. It maintained that the Naga political movement would endure and referred to the Framework Agreement signed on August 3, 2015 between the Government of India and the NSCN as a recognition of Naga political rights.

The group concluded by asserting that it would not remain passive if what it described as threats to Naga land and people persist, adding that justice for the Nagas remains its central concern.