CoTU miffed with Presidential address, PM's speech
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, July 06 2024: In response to the Presidential address and the Prime Minister's speech in the 18th Lok Sabha, Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi district has expressed deep disappointment at the lack of genuine empathy for the people of Manipur.

CoTU spokesperson, Ng Lun Kipgen said that the much-awaited Presidential address was devoid of genuine empathy towards the people of Manipur, which was exacerbated by the PM's speech, which defended the fallacies of chief minister N Biren Singh, whom the Kuki-Zo community accuses of being the protagonist of the present turmoil.

Vehemently bemoaning the address of PM Narendra Modi, Ng Lun Kipgen maintained that the PM's speech overlooked the responsibility of his own point man, chief minister N Biren Singh, whom he blamed for the ongoing crisis in the state.

He also asserted that it is inappropriate for the PM to equate the past incidents of 1993 with the present situation, as the present administration under CM N Biren is Complicit in the conflict.

"If the imposition of President's Rule 10 times in a small state such Manipur calls for curtailing of violence, then what is stopping the centre to impose yet another PR to resort peace in the state", he asked.

Kuki-Zo community strongly condemned what they describe as a "mass genocide programme" aimed at eradicating their people from the entire state due to an influx of refugees escaping the military junta regime in Myanmar.

Ng Lun Kipgen also outlined crucial measures if the central government under PM Modi is serious about solving the problems in the state.

Firstly, he emphasised the need to table the demand for separate administration for the Ku-ki-Zo in the Parliament, considering this step crucial for addressing the specific governance needs of the Kuki-Zo community.

Secondly, he urged imposition of AFSPA in the valley, covering 19 police stations, to facilitate recovery of looted arms and ammunition, aiming to enhance security and stability in the region.

Thirdly, Kipgen stressed on the importance of reining in armed militias, highlighting that controlling these militias is essential for reducing violence and fostering a peaceful environment in Manipur.

Comment