IPFM memo to NCST opposes Kuki state demand
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 03 2024: Indigenous People s Forum, Manipur (IPFM) has submitted a memorandum to chairperson of National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) opposing the proposal by one Paomilen Haokip for creation of a separate Kuki Hills State or Union Territory (UT) with legislature under Article 3 of the Indian Constitution, Article 239A, Article 240, or through an amendment to the North East Reorganisation Act, 1971 .

The memorandum, signed jointly by IPFM president Ashang Kasar and joint secretary Ramtahungbe Newme, representing the voice of people of Manipur, urged NCST to consider the broader public interest and sentiment when making any decisions on this matter.

IPFM argued that the representation submitted by Paomilen Haokip, on behalf of Committee on Protection of Tribal Areas (Kuki Hills) Manipur, is filled with errors, falsifications, mistaken beliefs, and fallacies intended to mislead the Commission and the Government of India.

According to IPFM, the claims made by Paomilen regarding historical boundaries and existence of areas such as Chassad, Mombi, Jampi, Haokip Reserve, and Kuki Hills in Outer Manipur are baseless.

The memorandum asserted that these submissions are "full of lies, errors, mistakes, fallacies and non-existence," and lack any authentication or proof from historical documents and records.

IPFM highlighted that the Kukis were not present in Manipur during significant historical events, such as invasion by the Awas from Myanmar in 1819 and the subsequent seven years of devastation, which forced almost all the populace in the valley to flee to Cachar and neighbouring hills.

IPFM also noted that the representation submitted by Paomilen Haokip was forwarded to union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla by Committee on Protection of Tribal Areas, Manipur for necessary action.

The memorandum urged NCST not to be swayed by the " false narratives, discourses and statements" presented by the Committee.

IPFM expressed firm belief that the creation of a separate statehood or UT for the Kukis in Manipur will not serve any purpose for the Government of India.

Instead, it cautioned that such a move would only exacerbate the already volatile situation in the strife-torn state of Manipur.

The memorandum urged NCST to take a prudent and diligent decision on this pressing issue of public importance that significantly affects the state of Manipur.

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