Remove state forces, free arrested duo: Kuki bodies
Source: Chronicle News Service
CCpur/Kpi, January 18 2024:
Several Kuki organisations have demanded removal of state forces from all Kuki-Zo inhabited areas particularly from Moreh and release of the arrested Kuki CSO leaders namely Philip Khongsai and Hemkholal Mate.
In separate releases, Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR), Kuki Chiefs' Association Tengnoupal district, Kuki Women Union and Human Rights Moreh and Hill Tribal Council, Moreh contended that the distrust of the Kuki-Zo people on the state forces is beyond repair and the idea behind the deployment of such forces in Kuki-Zo areas is overly exhibited.
They appealed to both state and central governments to completely remove state forces from all Kuki-Zo inhabited areas particularly Moreh so that peace prevails in these areas.
While clarifying that the two Kuki CSO leaders namely Phillip K Khongsai and Hemkholal Mate, who were arrested on charges of involvement in the killing of a police officer in Moreh were not involved in the incident and have no connection with the perpetrators, they pointed out that the volatile situation which has engulfed Moreh is the outcome of the myopic and ethno-centric agenda of the government of Manipur.
The deep fault lines and distrust between communities have been fuelled by CM N Biren's parochial and Meitei- centric agenda, they alleged.
The releases also cautioned authorities concerned that tension may escalate in Moreh border town if their demand is not fulfilled.
Seeking the attention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, they questioned whether the situation in the hills is to be taken care of by him as assured during his last visit.