KIM rejects COCOMI's allegations, demands Kuki-Zo UT
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kangpokpi, January 25 2025:
Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has strongly condemned the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) for accusing the Kuki-Zo people of instigating the ongoing violence in Manipur.
KIM described the claim as a "blatant lie" and an attempt to divert attention from the alleged ethnic cleansing of the Kuki-Zo community by radical Meetei forces.
KIM further accused COCOMI of serving as a tool for radical Meetei leaders who declared a "Manipuri National War" against the Kuki-Zo people on June 7, 2023.Since the onset of violence on May 3, 2023, the Kuki-Zo community has reportedly faced brutal attacks, including village burnings, looting, and hundreds of civilian deaths.
KIM alleges that these acts are part of a coordinated effort by the Meetei leadership, led by chief minister N Biren, to target Kuki-Zo people.
The organisation called for the creation of a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo community, describing it as essential to their survival and constitutional rights.
"The creation of a Union Territory is no longer a matter of choice - it is an absolute necessity," KIM stated.
The group also demanded an immediate halt to the violence, propaganda, and obstruction of justice by COCOMI and Meetei groups.
KIM information & publicity secretary Janghaolun Haokip warned that any further attempts to suppress the Kuki-Zo people would face strong resistance, asserting the community's unwavering resolve to fight for justice and dignity.