Kuki Inpi reiterates SA demand in memo to PM
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 19 2023:
In a memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has alleged attempts to erase their identity and heritage and reiterated their demand for a separate administration.
In the latest memorandum, KIM) has voiced deep concerns over the evolving situation and highlights the predicaments and existential threats faced by the Kuki people and calls attention to a series of events unfolding over the past months.
The Kuki body asserts that India's diversity is a cornerstone of the nation, encompassing a multitude of religions, cultures, and ethnicities, including the indigenous Kukis.
However, they accuse certain elements of projecting the Kukis as illegal immigrants, despite their unquestionable Indian identity.
Notable figures, such as N Biren and Meetei groups like COCOMI, are accused of propagating falsehoods about Kukis, aiming to dispossess them of their land and rights, it alleged.
The memorandum emphasises that the ongoing unrest in Manipur has no connection to the purported influx' of Kukis into the region, which the Kuki people consider overhyped.
Instead, KIM argues that the current unrest is a result of Meeteis' majoritarian agenda to subjugate the Kukis and deprive them of their rightful status.
KIM expresses dismay over statements made by, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, regarding the influx of Kukis' into Manipur and Mizoram as a cause of the current violence.
They believe that this statement not only inaccurately portrays the situation but also suggests a political agenda that aligns with secessionist interests.
The memorandum raises concerns about the harassment and threats faced by Kuki scholars, writers, leaders, and statesmen.
Academic freedom is allegedly being suppressed, with Kuki scholars facing legal action for their research and scholarly work, it stated.
KIM condemns this suppression of voices and calls for protection of academic freedom, which plays a crucial role in strengthening democratic society.
In response to these issues, a massive rally was organised by the Kuki community on Saturday, in various Kuki-in-habited areas of Manipur, under the auspices of KIM.
During the rally, participants unequivocally condemned the biased statements made by the Union Home Minister, demanding an apology for his comments and withdrawal of his contentious speech.
They also called for the withdrawal of cases and FIRs filed against Kuki scholars and leaders, along with action against valley based UG groups and their affiliated organisations, including COCOMI and politicians with alleged ties to them.
The memorandum underscores the sentiment within the Kuki community that peaceful coexistence with the Meeteis is becoming increasingly challenging.
KIM further urges the Government of India to expedite the demand for a separate state for the Kukis, a move they believe could pave the way for lasting peace.