Arambai Tenggol refutes NSCN-IM’s claims of targeting Christians in Manipur

Imphal: Arambai Tenggol has firmly dismissed the NSCN-IM's allegations that it targets minority Christians during the ongoing ethnic clashes between Kukis and Meiteis in Manipur.

The organization characterized these accusations as inaccurate and misleading.

In a statement, Arambai Tenggol leader Laishram Robason stated that the group is committed to preserving the cultural identity and traditional beliefs of their communities.

"We believe that the cultural identity and traditional beliefs of our communities are integral to our collective identity and must be safeguarded against any external influences that threaten their continuity," Robason stated.

On July 24, NSCN-IM labeled Arambai Tenggol as a militant group, despite it not being declared a banned organization by the government.

The Naga group accused Arambai Tenggol of violent extremism and of bearing a strong hatred towards Christians, claiming this poses a threat to peace and tolerance in Northeast, especially Manipur.

Countering these assertions, Arambai Tenggol stated, “We firmly assert that the violence is, in fact, the aggression of Kuki refugees against the Meiteis, one of the indigenous people of Manipur. The NSCN-IM’s characterization of the conflict overlooks the complex realities on the ground and misrepresents the nature of the aggression faced by the indigenous people of Manipur, especially the Meitei community.”

The statement further claimed that Arambai Tenggol was compelled to defend the Meitei community in response to armed aggression by Kuki refugees in Manipur.

“Many dedicated members of AT have sacrificed their lives in this defense. Under such circumstances, it is extremely unfortunate for the NSCN-IM to label AT as a militant group. This mischaracterization overlooks our true mission and our members’ sacrifices to protect our community and cultural heritage,” the statement added.

Arambai Tenggol stated that it respects all religions and the right to religious practices while opposing any form of conversion that "undermines or destroys" the cultural and religious heritage of the indigenous people of Manipur.

“Our commitment to creating a strong, unified voice for the Indigenous people of Manipur, advocating for their rights, and promoting the preservation of their unique cultural legacy. By doing so, we aim to contribute to a diverse and culturally rich society where the heritage of every community is valued and protected,” the statement added.

Earlier, the NSCN-IM has expressed deep concerns regarding the ongoing Meitei-Kuki-Zo ethnic conflict in Manipur, which began on May 03 last year.

In a statement, the NSCN-IM highlighted the “disturbing trend towards the Christians with harassment and physical assault by Arambai Tenggol” in Manipur.

It said: “Ironically, things are not going well as we have seen the disturbing trend towards Christians with harassment and physical assault by the local militant group Arambai Tenggol.”