Ccpur Kuki CSOs Reject Security Forces' Encounter Claim in Lenminsang Death, Demand Independent Probe

The Kuki Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Churachandpur district have strongly condemned and rejected the claim by Central Security Forces that Lenminsang, a resident of Songkong village in Henglep subdivision, was killed in an encounter.

In a joint statement issued by Kuki Inpi, Kuki Khanglai Lawmpi, Kuki Students' Organisation, Kuki Chiefs' Association, Kuki Women Union, and Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights, the organisations described the encounter claim as a deliberate attempt to distort facts and shield those responsible for what they termed a "grave injustice."

According to the CSOs, Lenminsang had remained at home on June 16 due to illness while other villagers went to their jhum fields. The organisations alleged that security forces launched an operation in the area during the day, reportedly involving drone strikes or mortar shelling that created panic among villagers.

Citing eyewitness accounts, the CSOs claimed that when the bombardment occurred near the village, Lenminsang fled his house in fear for his safety. They alleged that he was pursued by security personnel and shot at close range near his residence.

The organisations further alleged that when villagers later returned to the area, they found blood-stained clothing at the scene. They accused security personnel of subsequently altering the scene and dressing the deceased in combat attire in an attempt to portray him as a militant.

"The whole incident points to a cold-blooded extrajudicial killing followed by an apparent attempt to fabricate evidence," the statement said, adding that such actions were contrary to the rule of law.

The CSOs demanded an immediate, independent, impartial, and time-bound investigation into the incident. They also called for the identification, suspension, and prosecution of all personnel allegedly involved, irrespective of rank, and sought full public disclosure of the findings to ensure transparency and accountability.

Warning against what they described as the continued targeting and misrepresentation of innocent civilians, the organisations said the Kuki-Zo community would not remain silent if justice was denied or their concerns were ignored.

The statement also urged Central Security Forces to cease any form of extrajudicial conduct and cautioned that actions reflecting excessive use of force, bias, or illegality would further deepen mistrust between the community and the security establishment.