Govt should clarify nexus with Kuki militants: RK Anand
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 15 2023: In the wake of the expose on alleged nexus between BJP and Kuki militant group UKLF in multiple elections in the state, former MLA RK Anand demanded the government both at the Centre and in the state to clarify over the matter.

Addressing a press meet organised by Integrity, Unity and Peace Forum Manipur held at Kwakeithel Akham Leikai here on Thursday, Forum advisor RK Anand said that Himanta Biswa Sarma and Ram Madhav would have definitely sought approval from the Prime Minister before coming to an understanding with UKLF.

Considering the conflicting assurances given by union home minister Amit Shah, there is a strong possibility of granting autonomy or extending the 6th Schedule even if the state is not1 officially bifurcated.

As such, people of the state cannot simply trust the verbal assurance of upholding state's integrity, he cautioned.

RK Anand also pointed out that the Central government is technically in control of the administration in the state through a joint secretary and five directors from the Ministry of Home Affairs while bypassing state administration.

The chief minister of Manipur has been rendered powerless even though it is not officially affected and the ministry should clarify on this too, he demanded.

He also asserted that Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shall be not only be held accountable for any unwanted incidents arising out of the present crisis for his involvement in signing the election deal with the Kuki outfits but will also have to bear the consequences.

Further asking Assam and Mizoram not to interfere in the internal matter of the state, he maintained that the whole episode of nexus between BJP and Kuki militants with the assurance to fulfil the political aspiration of the latter is complete betrayal of the people of Manipur.

Anand also demanded that home minister Amit Shah, chief minister N Biren and Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma should resign on moral ground if the claim by Kuki militant is true. RK Anand also decried the Khamenlok massacre of nine Meetei village volunteers and shared the grief and pain of the bereaved families.

Regarding formation of the Peace Committee to find solution to the restive situation, he opined that enlisting members of different organisations, who are not in any position to face one another underscores lack of understanding of the situation.

Rather neutral personalities and organisations should be brought on board to make the peace committee effective, Anand stressed.

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