Contain Kukis first, Meeteis simply defending: MLA Ranjit
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 20 2024:
While stating that any attempt to detain Meetei volunteers will not bring solution to humanitarian crisis as the Meeteis are simply defending themselves from aggression by the Kuki militants, Sugnu MLA K Ranjit has advised the government to prioritise prevention of nefarious activities of Kuki militants in Lailoiphai and Dongyang area under Churachandpur district, who are launching the offensive using bombs and other high calibre weapons towards Sugnu.
Speaking to The People's Chronicle over the phone, MLA Ranjit contended that the Kuki militants equipped with high calibre weapons like LMG, MMG, and high explosive bombs are launching persistent attacks towards Sugnu from Lailoiphai and Dongyang side since the early morning of February 14.At least 15 houses have been damaged in the shelling with the state government seemingly hapless in defending the Meetei village from Kuki militants, he said.
Asserting that the current crisis remains unsolved due to failure of the Central and state governments to control the situation from going out of hand when it first broke out on May 3 last year, the Congress MLA said that the only option that for the Meeteis is to defend their land and properties which they have been doing since.
Earlier on February 17, chief minister N Biren spoke of using central security forces for con ducting combing operation in Lailoiphai and Dongyang areas apart from remarking about sending special commandos if the combing operation could not yield any positive result, recounted the MLA, while pointing out that hours after the CM's statement, Kuki militants bombarded Sugnu.
However, instead of carrying out combing operation in the Kuki areas, a joint team of state police and BSF conducted operation in Sugnu area instead on Tuesday, he lamented.
Youth from different parts of the state coming to Sugnu to defend the foothill village are offering prayers to Ibudhou Wangbren and standing on guard.
The situation is uncertain as law and order has totally collapsed in Churachandpur district which could be comprehended from SP of the district reportedly unable to venture out from his residence.
Despite such disturbing development, the security forces are unable to control the Kuki militants, he said and added that containing the Kuki militants will automatically subside the crisis.
The MLA also expressed concern over the way central security forces are handling the situation.