The Kuki Students’ Organization, Ukhrul (KSO-Ukhrul), unequivocally condemned the malicious circulation of social media content falsely associating Ms. Mercy Khongsai, Vice President (Administration), KSO-Ukhrul, with an alleged poppy plantation. The individual appearing in the circulated video is not Ms. Khongsai. Her name and designation have been wrongfully attached to footage of an unrelated individual.
The statement of KSO Ukhrul reads, “the location identified as Shongphel, Mullam, Ukhrul, was supplied by the Facebook page administrator and remains independently unverified. This reckless misidentification is a grave affront to her dignity and reputation.
“The false attribution originated from the Facebook page Tangkhul Naga Herald and was subsequently amplified by X accounts, including Behind the Truth (@behindttruth), Koubru (@koubru_lakpa), Meitei Heritage Society (@meiteiheritage), Khuraijam Athouba (@Paari Athouba) and former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh). Although the latter did not expressly name Ms. Khongsai, his post appeared within the context of the circulating narrative. His former constitutional position and public influence demand factual diligence; public prominence must never lend credibility to unverified allegations.
“For the record, Ms. Mercy Khongsai is a social leader, activist and educationist committed to truth, courage, peaceful coexistence and community development. Through her school, she works to improve educational opportunities and quality in her area. She has also actively advocated for replacing poppy cultivation with alternative, sustainable cash crops and lawful livelihoods. Falsely associating someone engaged in such constructive work with the very activity she seeks to discourage is particularly reprehensible.
“KSO-Ukhrul also recalls the earlier attempt by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), through its official press release, to malign Ms. Khongsai. The torch of vilification now appears to have passed from an official organisational platform to social media accounts and keyboard warriors, including Tangkhul Naga Herald. Changing platforms does not erase accountability, nor does repetition turn falsehood into truth.
“KSO-Ukhrul demands the immediate removal or correction of the misleading publications and unequivocal public clarification from those responsible. Appropriate legal action is already under process.
“Ms. Mercy Khongsai’s identity is not available for reckless appropriation, her reputation is not a target for online character assassination, and her public service is no licence to manufacture allegations against her. KSO-Ukhrul will pursue all appropriate legal remedies and will not allow this matter to be dismissed, diluted or swept under the carpet” added the statement issued by the Department of Media KSO-Ukhrul District.
