Peace process at stake, cautions KNO
Source: The Sangai Express / S Singlianmang Guite

Lamka, March 31 2012: Irked apparently on the recent remarks of Sambu Singh, Joint Secretary (NE) Ministry of Home Affairs over the issue of 'Kukiland,' Kuki National Organisation today recalled one of the darkest histories of the Kukis to fault him and warn that the peace process is at stake.

A-two-page statement of the group that seeks to take a dig on the remarks of Shambu Singh said core and substantive issues which might be interpreted as demands are to be raised for discussion during dialogue in New Delhi, not beforehand.

"Tripartite SoO means all three parties' consent is required for any resolution.

Arbitrary or unilateral decision contradicts the tripartite agreement.

This vital fact (also) invariably eludes the JS NE, as demonstrated by his autocratic behaviour in SoO meetings.

Courtesy will be reciprocated, authoritarianism is counterproductive and will not be entertained � this is the Kuki ethos," asserts the statement signed by Stephen Kuki, under secretary I&P, KNO apparently in response to joint secretary's remark on the SoO groups not coming out with a 'clear agenda' till date.

On his statement that the centre will not tolerate ground rule violations, the group insisted that the SoO was signed to create an atmosphere conducive for dialogue.

"The organization does not condone violation of ground rules.

However, the longer the talks are delayed, the chances of violation increases.

Political settlement, following honourable talks, which is the sole purpose of the SoO, is the only pragmatic means to ensure sustainable peace.

The ball is clearly in the court of the Government,' it added.

As for the reported remarks, 'where is Kukiland,' the KNO recalled the Zoupi massacre in 1993 that claimed 107 Kuki men to reveal that the DC of Tamenglong at that time was Shambu Singh.

His inaction to protect the Kukis of Zoupi village might be owing to sheer ignorance of the existing crisis or indifference towards the vulnerable Kukis.

"It is possible that he did not know where Zoupi village was either," quipped the statement.

Efforts and time already invested to bring issues to their logical conclusion through dialogue conducted in the spirit of mutual respect ought not to be jeopardised on account of an individual's folly, especially in regard to the Kuki peace process, cautioned the statement.

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