Imphal, May 19: The Kuki-Jo Council, the largest organization representing the Kuki-Jo community, has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene amid escalating ethnic violence and tension in Manipur. The organization expressed that the situation in the state is deteriorating, putting the safety, existence, and dignity of the community at risk. They urged the central government to take immediate and concrete action.
Kuki-Jo Council President Henlianthang Thanglet and General Secretary Thangjamang jointly submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister, outlining eight key demands. The most significant demand is for a separate administrative arrangement distinct from the current governance structure in Manipur, or the establishment of a separate Union Territory for the Kuki-Jo community.
The memorandum highlights that the ongoing violence has severely damaged relationships among the Meitei, Naga, and Kuki-Jo communities. Prolonged violence, killings, displacement, and property loss have worsened conditions to the point where peaceful coexistence under the current system is becoming increasingly difficult.
The Council stated that a permanent and peaceful resolution to the Manipur crisis is only possible if separate administrative arrangements are created for the three major communities (Meitei, Naga, and Kuki-Jo). They claim that the Kuki-Jo community is facing existential threats from multiple fronts, making separation from the current administrative framework a necessity for their safety and protection.
Additionally, the memorandum noted that the Kuki-Jo community has previously demanded a separate Union Territory with an assembly. Discussions are ongoing between the organizations involved under the ‘Suspension of Operations’ agreement and the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding this issue.
The Council’s other demands include the initiation of helicopter services in Kuki-Jo areas, ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential goods, deploying adequate security forces along sensitive district borders, and relocating examination centers for students to safer locations. This memorandum has also been submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Meanwhile, the Kuki Students Organization has sent a separate memorandum to the Prime Minister, demanding the immediate release of 14 abducted Kuki-Jo villagers. They have also called for the termination of the ceasefire agreement with NSCN-IM.
The organization has requested an investigation by the NIA or CBI into the murders of three church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13. They have also appealed for the rehabilitation of violence-affected individuals, compensation, and long-term security guarantees.
Additionally, the World Baptist Alliance, Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, Council for Baptist Churches in Northeast India, and Manipur Baptist Convention have urged the United Naga Council and Kuki Inpi Manipur to ensure the safe release of individuals held captive by various groups.
According to police officials, following the murder of church leaders and injuries to four others on May 13, over 40 individuals from the Kuki and Naga communities were taken hostage by different groups in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. However, through continuous efforts from the administration, community leaders, and social organizations, 30 individuals from both communities were safely released on May 14 and 15.
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Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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