Meeteis can return to Moreh if Kukis are allowed in Imphal: HTC
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 31 2024: The Moreh-based Hill Tribal Council (HTC) has expressed willingness to facilitate the return and resettlement of the displaced people of Meetei community in Moreh, provided similar arrangements are made for the displaced Kuki people in Imphal.

This was stated by HTC Moreh president Khaikholal Haokip during a meeting with Assam Rifles on Friday evening.

The meeting, held at the Assam Rifles Inspection Bungalow (AR IB) in Moreh at around 5 pm, was co-chaired by IGAR (South) Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, and 26 Sector Assam Rifles commander Brig Vedpal Yadav.

It saw participation from leaders of various community organisations, including Hill Tribal Council Moreh, Tamil Sangam Moreh, Gorkha Samaj Samiti Moreh, Manipur Muslim Council Moreh, Border Trade Chamber of Commerce Moreh, Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) Moreh, and Kuki Women's Union & Human Rights, Moreh.

During the meeting, Maj Gen Ravroop Singh emphasised the unique cosmopolitan nature of Moreh, unlike other parts of Manipur, highlighting its crucial role as a hub for cross-border trade.

He expressed concern that the ongoing unrest and absence of certain community members could threaten the town's economic vitality and cultural diversity.

Moreh is home to people from several communities, and the only composition missing right now is the Meetei community, he pointed out.

He further stressed the importance of restoring peace and normalcy to preserve the town's vibrancy and economic significance.

He also assured that Assam Rifles would provide the best possible assistance in maintaining peace, security, and resumption of trade activities in Moreh.

He urged all community organisations in the border town not to pose any restrictions on the return of displaced Meetei people while also promising to do whatever necessary to facilitate similar conditions for the Kuki community in the valley areas, including Imphal.

In response to these assurances, Khaikholal Haokip reiterated their readiness to support the return of Meeteis to Moreh.

However, he emphasised the need for a reciprocal arrangement, where the Kuki community would also be allowed to return and resettle in Imphal under similar conditions.

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