Intel on "900 Kuki Militants" Infiltration Declared "Unsubstantiated on Ground": Manipur Security Officials

Manipur's Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh and Director General of Police Rajiv Singh issued a joint statement on Wednesday, countering claims from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) that “over 900 Kuki militants” had infiltrated the state from Myanmar, reported The Indian Express. The officials asserted that this claim “could not be sustained on the ground,” leading the CMO to retract its earlier statements.

On September 17, a "leaked" intelligence report from the CMO had alarmingly suggested that over 900 Kuki militants, trained in advanced warfare tactics, had entered Manipur. This report claimed the militants were organized into units of 30 and were positioned around the Meitei-majority valley, allegedly planning coordinated attacks on September 28.

In response to the initial report, Kuldiep Singh announced that security forces, particularly the Assam Rifles, were placed on high alert in the border districts. He stated that the issue was discussed during a Strategic Operation Group meeting with key security personnel.

However, the recent joint statement clarified that while the intelligence input was verified, it “could not be substantiated on the ground.” The officials emphasized that security forces remained vigilant to protect citizens, urging communities not to believe in rumors or unverified information.

Following this clarification, the CMO communicated with the Information and Public Relations Department, officially retracting its claims. The note highlighted that the information about armed groups was shared for the police to assess and determine any necessary action. It concluded that the possibility of an armed attack was “remote,” assuring the public that there was no cause for concern.

The Kuki community reacted strongly to the initial claims, with several groups calling for a shutdown in tribal areas. The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) condemned the report as unfounded, alleging that it was fabricated to justify an assault on the Kuki-Zo community.

KIM specifically stated that the assertion of 900 militants planning attacks was baseless. They urged Kuki residents to remain indoors on September 27 and 28, warning that coordinated attacks might target Kuki areas. The Kuki organizations announced that a complete shutdown would be observed on September 28 in all Kuki-inhabited regions.