Kuki MLAs seek separate administration amid violence in Manipur

Last Updated on May 12, 2023 by SPN Editor

Imphal (SPN) | In a press statement released on May 12, 2023, 10 Kuki MLAs, including Nemcha Kipgen and Letpao Haokip, have sought a separate administration for Kuki communities in Manipur.

The move comes after the state has failed to protect them from the violence that began on May 3, 2023.

The press statement mentioned that the violence, which was perpetrated by the majority Meiteis and tacitly supported by the existing government of Manipur, has already partitioned the state and resulted in a total separation from the rest of Manipur for the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi hill tribals.

The situation has become so dire that MLAs, ministers, pastors, police and civil officers, laymen, and even children have not been spared. Places of worship, homes, and properties have also been destroyed.

Our people can no longer exist under Manipur as the hatred against our tribal communities has reached such a height that living amidst the Meitei is as good as death for our people.

As elected representatives of our people, we endorse their political aspiration of separation from the state of Manipur. A political consultation with our people will also be held soon to determine further steps.

Manipur has been reeling under a state of turmoil in recent times, with the latest episode being the displacement of over 35,000 people and the burning of around 1,700 houses.

Unfortunately, the violence has also resulted in the loss of 68 lives, with unofficial reports suggesting that the death toll will be more than 100.

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With the state of Manipur failing to protect them, the MLAs seek the Union of India’s help in securing a separate administration under the Constitution of India.

They hope to live peacefully as neighbors with the state of Manipur. Vungjagin Vatle, one of the signatories of the statement, is currently in the ICU at Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, and someone signed on his behalf.

The violence against the Kuki people in Manipur has escalated to such a degree that the Kuki MLAs have been forced to seek a separate administration.

The displacement of tens of thousands of people and the loss of many lives have made it clear that the state of Manipur has failed to protect its citizens. It remains to be seen what the Union of India’s response will be to the MLAs’ plea for help.

The press statement mentioned above was signed by ten Kuki MLAs, including Haokholet Kipgen from Saitu AC, Ngursanglur Sanate from Tipaimukh AC, Kimneo Haokip Hangshing from Saikul AC, Letpao Haokip from Tengnoupal AC, LM Khaute from Churachandpur AC, Letzamang Haokip from Henglep AC, Chinlunthang from Singhgat AC, Paolienlal Haokip from Saikot AC, Nemcha Kipgen from Kangpokpi AC, and Vungjagin Vatle from Thanlon AC.