UCM slams groups advocating separation
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 21 2024: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) has responded strongly to recent statements made by certain groups, such as Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and Zomi Chiefs' Association (ZCA), advocating separation and a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo people in Manipur, citing the ongoing conflict in the state.

UCM emphasised the need for unity and cautioned against divisive rhetoric that could jeopardise the integrity of Manipur and the Indian nation.

In a statement, UCM said that in the light of a recent press meet held at its head office on September 19, it appears that some organisations and individuals have misunderstood the role of UCM.

The statement clarified that UCM is a representative organisation of every community in the state of Manipur and includes a dedicated department of community & tribal affairs.

Since its formation, UCM has upheld the values of peace, unity, and integrity, honouring co-existence of the diverse communities and tribes in Manipur, particularly the 34 Scheduled Tribes recognised in the Indian Constitution.

Responding to Kuki Inpi Manipur's recent press statement, which advocated for a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo people in light of the current conflict, UCM accused KIM of supporting a divisive agenda that could lead to further fragmentation of the state.

UCM noted that the state government has already acknowledged the presence of illegal immigrants from Myanmar, many of whom have been deported.

It also pointed out the state cabinet's findings of new settlements along the border, raising concerns about unchecked immigration.

In a strong rebuke, UCM stated that it was unfortunate for KIM, which represents several recognised tribes under the Indian Constitution, to advocate separation while promoting hostility between communities.

UCM urged KIM to exercise maturity in its statements, stressing that inflammatory rhetoric has potential to inflame the already tense and volatile situation.

UCM also addressed a statement circulating on social media, attributed to Zomi Chiefs' Association (ZCA).

In an open letter to UCM president YK Dhiren, ZCA raised various concerns.

However, UCM emphasised that the historical records of Manipur do not recognise the Zomi community as a distinct entity.

The state, since its inception, has been built on harmonious integration between the hill and valley peoples.

UCM reiterated its commitment to the dignity and integrity of the 34 recognised tribes listed in the Indian Constitution.

Nevertheless, the organisation made it clear that it would not remain passive or silent if any group or individual sought to disrupt the territorial integrity and internal security of the country.

"Any individual or organisation must exercise prudence in their statements and refrain from making inflammatory comments that threaten the integrity and co-existence in the state of Manipur," UCM stated.

"We expect all neighbouring communities to take caution and not provoke the already tense and volatile situation," UCM added UCM also refuted the idea of ethnic cleansing, a term it said has no place in the values the organisation upholds.

UCM has always advocated for the unity and integrity of Manipur's indigenous tribes and emphasised that the ongoing crisis in the state has been exacerbated by demographic imbalances resulting from unchecked illegal immigration through the porous borders.

UCM also sent a stern warning to those entering Manipur as refugees and settling temporarily, stating that any actions that challenge the unity and territorial integrity of the state will not be overlooked.

"If their presence or action challenges the unity and territorial integrity of Manipur, it won't be overlooked at any point of time," UCM declared.

Addressing the issue of cross-border movement, UCM stressed the need for immediate action to secure Manipur's borders from infiltration.

"There is a serious threat to the internal security of the state of Manipur and India, and urgent fencing of the international boundary is a must," UCM stated.

While recognising the historical and familial ties that transcend borders, UCM reminded its tribal brothers and sisters that the Indian Constitution provides provisions for legal visits beyond borders.

It called on all communities to support the Central government's initiatives to secure the borders and prevent cross-border infiltration and terrorism.

In closing, UCM reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace, unity, and integrity in Manipur, while appealing to organisations like Kuki Inpi Manipur and the Zomi Chiefs' Association to act responsibly in the Current volatile environment.

They urged all indigenous tribes of Manipur to support the government's efforts to maintain internal security and territorial integrity.

"The United Committee Manipur expects all our indigenous tribes to support the Government of India's plan to secure our borders from cross-border infiltration and terrorism," UCM concluded.

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