NSCN (IM) calls out Arambai Tengol over ‘violent extremism’

DIMAPUR — The NSCN (IM) has expressed concern over the alleged targeting of Christians in Manipur amidst the ongoing Meitei-Kuki-Zo ethnic conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023.

While the group has been maintaining neutrality, “we have seen the disturbing trend towards the Christians with harassment and physical assault by the local militant group Arambai Tengol,” it said in a statement on Monday.

Claiming that people behind the formation of Arambai Tengol was “an open secret”, it said those individuals hold “strong convictions or extreme principles” aimed at achieving fundamental socio-political reforms through radical means.

Further labelling the Arambai Tengol’s actions as “violent extremism” that threatens peace and tolerance, as well as animosity towards Christians “both in spirit and actions”, the NSCN asserted the need to protect Christians in Manipur

“NSCN (IM) would like to see the change of heart on the part of Arambai Tengol and not to treat the Christians as if to get rid of the dirt. NSCN stands for peaceful co-existence of all religious groups in Manipur,” it added.