Kuki-Zo Council opposes ADC ad-hoc panels, polls
Source: Chronicle News Service / Kaimuanthang Mante

CCpur, October 27 2024: Kuki-Zo Council has raised strong objection against the recent decision of the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) on recommendation of state cabinet's resolution, to constitute ad-hoc committees' for the six Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) as well as any attempt to hold ADC elections in Kuki-Zo areas.

In a press release, the Council stated that the move is direct threat to the democratic principles and autonomy of the ADCs, undermining the authority vested in elected representatives by the people.

"The Kuki-Zo Council firmly believes that such a move would erode the very foundation of the ADCs and contradicts the spirit of decentralisation and self-governance," the statement asserted.

It further highlighted that the HAC resolution No 59, passed on October 14, 2024, di rectly contravenes the District Councils Act of 1971 and the Rules of 1972, representing an attempt to curtail the powers and functions of the constitutionally established ADCs in Manipur.

The Council emphasised that the recent actions by the state government are perceived as a calculated move to stifle the political and democratic freedom of the tribal population.

This manoeuvre is widely viewed as a "sinister ploy" to undermine the rights and voices of the indigenous tribal community, casting doubt and suspicion over the intentions of the governing body, the Council maintained.

It also criticised what it described as a blatant disregard for democratic principles, pointing out that the 10 Kuki-Zo members of the HAC were not consulted in taking the decision.

"This omission is a strong indication of the opposition within the Council towards this controversial resolution," the statement said.

The Council also reaffirmed its political demand to the government of India, stating that "the only lasting solution to the ongoing conflict is the creation of a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory with a legislature" .

It further alleged that the state-sponsored violence has made it abundantly clear that peaceful coexistence is no longer feasible within the current framework of Manipur, making a separate administration necessary to safeguard the safety, dignity, and future of the Kuki-Zo people.

The release also warned that any attempt to impose ADC elections or select committee members to administer the ADCs on the Kuki-Zo people will be boycotted and opposed unless the demand for a Union Territory with a legislature is upheld.

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