Susindro calls SOS call of Moreh Kukis theatrical
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 08 2023:
CAF&PD minister L Susindro has termed the save our soul (SOS) call of Kuki residents of Moreh and baseless accusations against security forces as theatrics.
Attending a programme organised under the aegis of DC Imphal East for distribution of special job cards and passbooks for zero balance bank accounts to displaced people of Moreh, who are taking refuge in a relief camp set up at the veterinary guest house in Imphal East, minister Susindro hailed the resilience and courage of Meetei residents of Moreh.
Contrary to the reality that the Meeteis were forced to leave the border town by Kuki mob and militants, who looted and burned their properties, Kukis are levelling baseless charges that the state police are harassing them and looting their properties, he said, while terming it as theatrics.
To their disappointment, IGAR (S) had debunked their accusations and they should feel ashamed for such drama, the minister maintained.
Further stating that Kukis are making a desperate attempt to take over the border town which was once dominated by Meeteis and had substantial Naga population, Susindro referred to a report published by Myanmar's Mizzima News that population of Myanmar decreased by around 15 lakhs in the past few years.
The News channel also cited suspicion of more than 7 lakh Myanmarese Kukis from the surrounding areas of Chindwin River crossing into Manipur in the past few years, Susindro said.
The Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar, which allows free movement of citizens of both countries within a distance of 16 km without any visa, has been a major factor for the influx of illegal immigrants from the neighbouring country.
The present situation in the state is an outcome of the Article 371 C and uncontrolled influx of illegal immigrants, he said.
The minister further said that the government does not direct'any of its initiatives against any community including Kuki.
Appointing minister Letpao Haokip as the chairman of the cabinet committee for detection of illegal immigrants was a solid example of the government's transparency and sincerity in tackling the matter.
The committee has members from Meetei, Naga and Kuki communities and there was no room of foul play in the functioning of the committee, he said.
Assuring the displaced people necessary assistance from the government, Susindro said that the labour department has initiated one card, one family scheme for the displaced families.
Besides, the special job card holders living in the relief camp will get wage of Rs 3120 each as a gift of Ningol Chakkouba.
DC Imphal East Khumanthem Diana, SDO Jotin, BDO Amuthoi Kha Nganba, Khurai Chingangbam Leikai former pradhan L Kananbala, nodal officer of the relief camp and other officials also attended the programme.