“If the Kukis Want Churachandpur, We Will Support It, But….” — NSCN-IM Deputy Ato Kilonser V.S. Atem

In an interview with The Print, V.S. Atem, Deputy Ato Kilonser of the NSCN-IM, stated that the Nagas have no intention of aligning with either the Meiteis or the Kukis amid the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur that began in May 2023.

Responding to a question on how the Nagas view the conflict, Atem said,

“In the past, the Meiteis and Kukis were together — they supported and promoted each other, in order to fight with the Nagas. But over time, what makes them turn their heads against each other, we do not know. So the Nagas have no interest in aligning with either side or going against the other.”

When asked about a possible solution to the crisis, Atem replied briefly,

“They would know the solution.”

In a separate interview with East Mojo, Atem reiterated the NSCN-IM’s position on the issue of administrative divisions in Manipur. He stated,

“If the Kukis say they want a separate administration for Churachandpur, we have already told them long ago that we will fully support it. But for Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal, that is not their place.”