In a strongly worded statement, KNF dismissed the accusations as “fabricated and politically motivated,” warning that such claims threaten the fragile peace negotiations with the government.
BY PC bureau
July 24: The Kuki National Front (KNF) has firmly denied recent NDTV report alleging that its cadres forced villagers along the Imphal–Kangpokpi section of Asian Highway-2 (AH-2) to sign blank documents and misappropriated compensation linked to road expansion projects.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, KNF called the allegations “baseless, defamatory, and aimed at sabotaging the ongoing peace process.”
“KNF has no role whatsoever in extorting compensation or coercing villagers. These accusations are fabricated and intended to malign our organisation,” said Lh. Stephen, Secretary of Information and Publicity, KNF.
The group expressed dismay over what it described as a calculated attempt to damage its credibility at a critical juncture in peace talks with the Indian and Manipur governments. KNF, a signatory to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, stated that it has consistently respected the ground rules of the ceasefire and worked in tandem with local communities to support development initiatives.
“We have never obstructed road works. On the contrary, we’ve facilitated smooth implementation where necessary,” the press note said.
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KNF emphasized its ongoing commitment to infrastructure development and community welfare in areas under its influence. It reaffirmed that any suggestion of interference in compensation disbursement or road construction is both factually incorrect and politically motivated.
The organisation also warned that such allegations could seriously undermine the fragile trust that peace-building efforts rely upon.
“These malicious claims are clearly timed to derail the political dialogue and incite mistrust. They appear to serve vested political and social interests,” Stephen said.
KNF further accused unnamed groups of orchestrating a smear campaign to weaken public confidence in its peaceful and democratic path.
“This is a deliberate ploy to create unrest and destabilize the reconciliation process. Such actions do not serve the interests of any community,” the statement added.
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The organisation appealed to civil society groups, village authorities, and media professionals to verify facts before echoing unsubstantiated charges. It stressed that media outlets should avoid sensationalism and uphold journalistic ethics when covering sensitive issues.
“Irresponsible reporting not only misleads the public but also jeopardises community harmony. We urge the media to exercise greater caution,” the KNF said.
Reaffirming its commitment to the political, social, and economic aspirations of the Kuki people, the group vowed not to be distracted by attempts to derail the process through misinformation.
“No smear campaign can shake our resolve. KNF remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the dignity and rights of our people through peaceful and democratic means,” the statement concluded.
