Kuki MLAs bat for peace, impartial probe
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 20 2024: The 10 Kuki MLAs have raised serious concern over the resolutions passed by the "Ruling MLAs of Manipur" on November 18, describing them as divisive, one-sided, and reflective of a communal agenda pushed by chief minister N Biren Singh.

The MLAs voiced their opposition to the state government's recent decision, especially those that they say ignored the rights of the tribal communities and further entrench ethnic divides in the region.

In a joint press statement, the Kuki lawmakers criticised the state cabinet's endorsement of a resolution on November 16, which they argued catered to the interests of fringe groups claiming to represent the Thadou and Hmar tribes.

The MLAs called it a reflection of the government s "communal agenda," which, they argued, strengthens the case for a separate political and administrative entity for the Kuki people.

The statement also raised alarms over the extension of the Armed Forces' Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in parts of Manipur, imposed on November 14.While acknowledging the security challenges, the MLAs called for a review of the order and recommended extending AFSPA to all 13 police jurisdictions in the Imphal Valley.

They stressed that such a move is necessary to recover over 6000 weapons looted by Meitei groups since May 2023.However, they expressed concern that the state's current military operations appeared to target only one community, singling out the Kuki people.

The MLAs called for a more balanced approach, urging the government to conduct mass operations throughout the state to recover illegal arms from all militia groups, regardless of their ethnic or political affiliation.

The joint statement also opposed the state's decision to transfer the investigation into the deaths of six civilians to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), arguing that investigations into all civilian killings since May 3, 2023, should be handed over to the NIA, regardless of the community involved.

The Kuki MLAs also called for urgent steps to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur, stressing the need for an inclusive political dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict.

They urged both the central and state governments to engage in meaningful talks with all stakeholders to bring about a lasting solution.

Comment