NSCN denies hand in Keithelmanbi massacre

IMPHAL, April 20: The NSCN(IM) has categorically stated that it was not in any involved in the April 12 attack at Keithelmanbi that left seven Kuki villagers dead. Reacting strongly against some reports that the NSCN(IM) was behind the attack the Naga rebel group in a message faxed this evening stated that news reports which said the NSCN(IM) was behind the attack is concocted and without basis. The underground outfit also questioned the credibility of the report. The allegation is nothing but an attempt to drive a wedge amongst the Nagas and Kukis and to tarnish the image of the NSCN. Far from being a party to the attack, the NSCN said that it would never initiate such senseless acts when the Nagas and Kukis are close rapport with earnest efforts from both sides to maintain peace and communal harmony. The rebel further said that the Kuki community (KRA and KNF) are always at loggerheads amongst themselves and everyone including the Government of India knows this, and added with good measures that the NSCN has nothing to do with the factional fights amongst the Kukis. The NSCN also dismissed the report that it had abducted four cadres of the KNF (MC) and said it was the KNF (MC) which had captures four cadres of the NSCN on April 4. NSCN also condemned the report of Centre for Research and Organization, CORE and cautioned not to indulge in such unfounded propaganda.