Amid rising tensions in Manipur, the Kuki Students’ Organisation has questioned NESO’s selective approach in addressing regional issues. Highlighting attacks on Kuki students and biased narratives, KSO demands an inclusive and just representation.
BY PC Bureau
The Kuki Students’ Organisation, Delhi & NCR (KSOD&NCR) has locked horns with the North East Students’ Organization (NESO) regarding the role of security forces in Manipur. The student body warned that unverified claims, if left unaddressed, risk exacerbating misunderstandings and deepening existing tensions.
While the Kuki Students’ Organisation acknowledged NESO’s stated commitment to peace and stability in the Northeast, it raised concerns over what it described as inconsistencies in NESO’s stance that require urgent clarification.
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A key point of contention in NESO’s recent statement was its reference to allegations made by the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) regarding security forces in Manipur. The Kuki Students’ Organisation asserted that these claims have been categorically refuted by multiple credible civil society organizations, including KSO Sadar Hills, the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), and the Kuki-Zo Council.
“These organizations have provided factual clarity, proving that the allegations are unfounded,” the Kuki Students’ Organisation stated. “Such claims, if amplified without verification, do not contribute to peace but rather inflame tensions. It is imperative that all stakeholders, including NESO, exercise caution and responsibility when making public statements that could influence the already fragile situation.”
The Kuki Students' Organisation Delhi & NCR responds to the North East Students' Organization's (NESO) allegations, criticizing their #SelectiveOutrage and silence regarding the struggles of Kuki students, including those at Manipur University.
KSOD urges NESO to maintain… https://t.co/Zgb3aSGSv5 pic.twitter.com/6jTCKG6wWi
— Sumkawn (@Sumkawn) March 6, 2025
Concerns Over Selective Advocacy
The Kuki Students’ Organisation further criticized NESO for what it described as a pattern of selective advocacy, pointing to the organization’s silence on similar past incidents involving security forces and armed groups in the region.
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“For years, security forces in the Northeast have been accused of facilitating the activities of certain insurgent groups, including the Th. Muivah-led NSCN-IM,” the Kuki Students’ Organisation stated. “There have been documented allegations against the Assam Rifles for providing safe passage to NSCN-IM cadres, yet NESO has remained conspicuously silent on such matters. This inconsistency raises serious questions about NESO’s impartiality.”
The Kuki Students’ Organisation stressed that if NESO truly aims to uphold justice, it must ensure that its concerns are applied uniformly across all affected communities rather than being influenced by political considerations.
NESO’s Silence on Violence Against Kuki Students
The Kuki Students’ Organisation also called out NESO for its failure to address the challenges faced by Kuki students amid the ongoing crisis. The organization highlighted multiple instances of targeted violence and discrimination against Kuki students, particularly in educational institutions across Manipur.
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“Many Kuki students have been forced to flee from their hostels after being attacked,” the Kuki Students’ Organisation noted. “At Manipur University, student residences were raided, forcing Kuki students to abandon their studies. Several have lost their academic certificates and are struggling to continue their education. Despite claiming to represent students across the Northeast, NESO has failed to acknowledge these grave injustices.”
The Kuki Students’ Organisation emphasized that the selective nature of NESO’s statements weakens its credibility as a representative student body, and urged it to ensure inclusivity in its advocacy.
In light of the escalating crisis in Manipur, the Kuki Students’ Organisation urged NESO to embrace a more balanced and fact-based approach. It emphasized that advocacy efforts should be grounded in truth and genuine concern for all affected communities rather than being shaped by selective outrage or political biases.
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“Instead of amplifying narratives that sow further divisions, NESO should engage in constructive dialogue that promotes unity, peace, and long-term stability in the region,” the Kuki Students’ Organisation stated. “Student organizations hold a vital responsibility in fostering reconciliation, not exacerbating discord.”
The Kuki Students’ Organisation expressed disappointment that NESO appears to be influenced by individuals and groups harboring anti-Kuki sentiments for their own political agendas. It strongly condemned any attempt to manipulate a student organization for such purposes, warning that such actions undermine the credibility and neutrality of student advocacy in the region.
“We urge NESO to reflect on its stance and adopt a truly inclusive and unbiased approach to addressing the challenges in Manipur,” the Kuki Students’ Organisation stated. “Only through genuine neutrality and a commitment to truth can we hope to foster lasting peace and unity in the Northeast.”
The Kuki Students’ Organisation called upon NESO to take its responsibilities seriously and ensure that its future actions are guided by fairness, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of all communities in the region.
Background: NESO’s Allegations Against Security Forces
NESO had earlier raised concerns that security forces in Manipur were allegedly escorting certain groups, a move it warned could undermine peace efforts. The Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) had accused paramilitary forces of bias, urging the government to conduct an impartial investigation.
NESO emphasized the importance of security forces maintaining neutrality and called on the Indian government to ensure a fair and unbiased approach in handling the crisis. The organization also urged authorities to take proactive measures to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, where thousands remain displaced due to ethnic conflict.
With various student organizations—including the All Assam Students’ Union, Khasi Students’ Union, Naga Students’ Federation, and All Manipur Students’ Union—supporting NESO’s stance, the issue continues to be a subject of intense debate in the region.
