The Sinakeithei Village Authority in Ukhrul district has issued a detailed rebuttal and clarification addressing what it termed as “unfounded allegations” made by KCSOWC regarding the village’s security posture and administrative actions.
In an official statement, the authority asserted that Sinakeithei has been under sustained and unpredictable attacks since March 2026, allegedly carried out by Kuki militants and Village Volunteers Groups (VVGs) originating from the Lungter Mountain Range. The statement further claimed that these activities were being directed by an individual identified as Seipu Doungel, a resident of Dongsum Kuki village, who had previously visited Sinakeithei and was familiar with the area.
According to the authority, prior to the escalation of violence, threats had been issued indicating that the village would face attacks regardless of the presence of state forces or the Mahar Regiment.
The village authority also justified its decision to de-sanction the Leplen–Tingpibung road axis, describing it as a preventive measure to ensure the safety of civilians. The route, which passes along the foothills of the Lungter range, was allegedly being used as a corridor for the unauthorized movement of arms, ammunition, and militants toward the Litan sector. To mitigate risks, access to the route was restricted with prior public notice.
Citing legal provisions, the authority maintained that its actions are in accordance with Article 371C of the Indian Constitution and the Manipur (Hill Areas) Village Authorities Act, 1956, which grant it the authority to revoke such permissions if security is threatened.
The statement also categorically denied the presence of NSCN-IM within its jurisdiction, dismissing references to an individual named “Col. Chipem” as baseless and fabricated. It emphasized that the village’s defense is being handled solely by coordinated efforts involving the Mahar Regiment, 131 Battalion BSF, Manipur State Forces, and local village volunteers.
Rejecting claims of involvement by external non-state actors, the authority described such allegations as deliberate attempts to distort ground realities and undermine its legitimate self-defense measures.
The statement was issued by the Media Cell of the Sinakeithei Village Authority.
