The Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur have escalated their demands amid ongoing ethnic violence, now calling for the creation of a separate Union territory with a legislature. Representatives from the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) Delhi and NCR made this demand at a press conference on Thursday, citing the dire situation faced by their people.
The KSO claims the ethnic strife in Manipur has displaced over 41,000 people, destroyed more than 200 Kuki-Zo villages, and led to 191 deaths, including brutal incidents of rape and murder.
They argue that only the formation of a Union territory, similar to Puducherry, would ensure justice for their community.
Demand for separate administration
“We have moved beyond merely calling for President's rule. A separate Union territory with a legislature is essential to safeguard our community,” stated Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary (Information & Publicity) of Kuki Inpi Manipur.
The KSO has also pointed to a controversial audio clip, allegedly of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, which the state government has dismissed as 'doctored.' The group considers this clip as irrefutable proof of the crisis in the state.
The Kuki-Zo representatives have appealed to the central government to expedite a political solution. However, Haokip lamented the lack of response from either the state or the Centre regarding their demands.
Historical claims and allegations
Responding to allegations that the Kuki-Zo people are immigrants, Michael Haokip, an assistant professor at Ambedkar University, cited references in Buddhist and Sanskrit texts to assert their indigenous status.
Meanwhile, Mang Khongsai, 'Home Secretary' of KSO GHQ, alleged that Kuki-Zo settlements in hilly areas were being unfairly targeted under the guise of removing encroachments.
Rising tensions
Ethnic violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, after a tribal solidarity march opposed the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Since then, over 220 people have died, including members of both communities and security personnel.
The KSO has also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, opposing the Centre's decision to withdraw Assam Rifles from buffer zones in the state, further fuelling tensions.
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