CoTU decries cabinet decision
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, November 19 2024: The resolution passed by the state cabinet has drawn sharp criticism from the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), which accused the state government of being complicit in the ongoing ethnic conflict.

In a statement, CoTU alleged that chief minister N Biren Singh is the "mastermind" behind the violence, describing it as a well-orchestrated political charade.

The Committee pointed to an audio recording of the CM which the Supreme Court of India ordered for investigation, marking a critical turning point in the ongoing conflict.

CoTU also criticised the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for killing 11 Kuki-Zo volunteers under the pretext of an ambush, and accused the security forces of siding with the majority Meetei community.

The cabinet resolution passed in the absence of 10 Kuki-Zo legislators, includes contentious measures such as withdrawal of six police stations from areas under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), abrogation of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with Kuki-Zo underground groups, and the removal of Assam Rifles from buffer zones in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi.

CoTU denounced these actions as deliberate moves to undermine the rights of minorities and perpetuate majoritarian dominance.

CoTU also criticised the government's focus on the death of six individuals from a specific community, calling it a "choreographed political drama" and a dangerous precedent in the ongoing conflict.

CoTU further urged the Government of India to intervene politically to address the deepening crisis in Manipur.

They called for constitutional safeguards under Article 239A to protect the Kuki-Zo minority and ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.

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