The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF–S Kamson) has strongly rejected the claims made by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) regarding the January 8 gunfire incident, saying the statements falsely portrayed the episode as intimidation of “innocent villagers” and did not reflect the actual situation on the ground.
In a statement, the ZUF said reliable and verified information points to the systematic construction of fortified bunkers by Kuki underground groups at village entrances, within residential areas, and in surrounding locations. According to the outfit, the militarization of these areas contradicts any attempt to describe them as purely civilian or non-combat zones.
The group also expressed serious concern over the alleged actions of KNF-P cadres, including the vandalism of public structures such as a waiting shed and other properties belonging to Ireng Zeliangrong Inpui Naga Village. It further claimed that threats were issued to burn down the village and harm its residents, calling such acts grave violations of law and order, as well as direct threats to indigenous land rights and public safety.
ZUF asserted that encroachment on ancestral land through intimidation, coercion, or misrepresentation of indigenous status cannot be justified through propaganda or force. It said it would not remain silent in the face of illegal encroachment, organized criminal activities, or the presence of drug networks within its ancestral territory.
Reaffirming its stance, the outfit said it remains fully committed to protecting its people, land, and property from all forms of illegal occupation, adding that the ancestral land of the Zeliangrong Inpui people is non-negotiable and will not be surrendered under any circumstances.
