Kuki-Zo top tribal body rebukes Manipur Chief Minister's claims
Source: The Sangai Express

Kangpokpi, January 24 2025: In a fiery response to Chief MinisterN Biren Singh's recent media statements dismissing allegations of discrimination between Manipur's hills and valley, the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) has denounced his remarks as baseless and misleading.

The organization has accused the Chief Minister of presenting a distorted narrative that fails to reflect the grim realities faced by tribal communities.

The much-publicized "Go to Village" program, touted as a cornerstone of equitable development, has been criticized as a veiled attempt to impose expansionist policies in tribal regions.

According to COTU, the real markers of development - such as improved quality of life, access to quality education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods - are glaringly absent in the hills, exposing the program as little more than a political gimmick.

The committee further lambasted the State Government for what they described as an abject failure to deliver on key governance fronts, including addressing unemployment, starvation, militarization, and the widening trust deficit between tribal and non-tribal communities.

They pointed to the eruption of violence on May 3, 2023, as a symptom of this systemic failure.

Additionally, COTU condemned a recent wave of media reports from valley-based outlets alleging the recruitment of child militants in Ponlen village.

These reports, the committee asserts, are "irresponsible, defamatory, and a blatant violation of journalistic ethics".

Such narratives, they argued, are designed to vilify the Kuki-Zo community and escalate tensions, said COTU.

COTU called on both local and national media to exercise restraint and prioritize balanced factual reporting.

They emphasized the role of the media in fostering trust and understanding between communities rather than inflaming the volatile situation.

"Constructive dialogue and fair information are essential to rebuilding mutual coexistence," the committee stated.

They urged all stakeholders to focus on bridging divides and creating an environment conducive to peace and sustainable development.

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