Kuki CSOs, Village Body Hold Tearful Vigil for Slain BSF Jawan in Manipur's Ukhrul; Warn Against ‘Distortion’ of Sacrifice

In a deeply emotional show of grief and solidarity, the Kuki civil society organisations and villagers in Manipur’s Mongkot Chepu in Ukhrul district paid homage to slain BSF constable Mithun Mandal, asserting that his “supreme sacrifice” in the line of duty must not be “misrepresented under any narrative”.

A solemn candlelight vigil was held at Mongkot Chepu village under the aegis of the Kuki CSO Working Committee (WCKCSOs) and the local village authority, honouring Constable Mandal of the 170/A Battalion, who was killed in firing on April 10 while protecting villagers amid tensions in the hill district.

The tribute began with a silent procession from Mongkot Chepu Christian Church to the site where the constable fell, followed by a brief but poignant programme attended by village leaders, church representatives, and members of Kuki organisations, including KSO-Ukhrul and Kuki Inpi-Ukhrul.

Grief hung heavy as mourners observed a one-minute silence, their collective sorrow underscoring the loss of a man they said “took the bullets meant for us”.

Addressing the gathering, KSO-Ukhrul Vice President Mercy Khongsai said no amount of misinformation could dilute the truth of Mandal’s bravery, insisting that the fallen jawan’s actions spoke louder than “conflicting narratives circulating in sections of media”.

“We know our truth. He stood between us and death,” she said, her voice echoing the sentiment of a shaken community.

Pastor Thongngam Khongsai led prayers for the bereaved family, as well as for security personnel deployed in the region, with special mention of the Border Security Force.

In a strongly worded statement, the WCKCSOs condemned any attempt to “distort or undermine” the sacrifice of the constable, asserting that his courage and selflessness would be “remembered with honour and defended with truth”.

The village authority, in a parallel statement, said the community would remain “forever indebted” to Mandal, describing his death as a loss that transcends uniform and region.

The vigil, marked by flickering candles and quiet tears, stood as a stark reminder of the human cost of the ongoing unrest in Manipur’s hill districts, where fragile peace continues to be tested by recurring violence.