Meitei Settled in Churachandpur Before Arrival of “New” Kukis-Chongtham Bijoy

Last Updated on August 2, 2023 by SPN Editor

Imphal/ August 2, 2023 (SPN) | In a strong and unequivocal statement, political commentator Chongtham Bijoy has refuted the recent controversial statement made by BJP MLA Paolienlal Haokip.

Addressing the media at his residence in Lamphel on Tuesday, Ch Bijoy addressed historical aspects, refuting the notion of the Anglo-Kuki War (1917-1919) in the context of Manipur’s history.

He claimed that Meitei had settled in Churachandpur before the arrival of the “new” Kukis, shedding light on historical perspectives.

Bijoy also categorically stated that Kukis are not indigenous to Manipur. He further asked the people to understand why the British classified the Kukis into two groups-old and new.

Ch. Bijoy also said, Page 73 of the book titled “Wild Races of The Eastern Frontier of India” written by Thomas Herbert Lewin clearly mentions the Kuki tribe and, as per the book, the Kuki people first made their settlement in the remote locations of Chittagong Hill tracts in 1580 and they were nudists then.

Chongtham Bijoy criticized the idea of creating three separate Union Territories as a solution to the state’s conflict.

Chongtham Bijoy responded to the claims made by rebel BJP MLA Paolienlal Haokip, who accused the Manipur Government of trying to rob the rights of tribal people and portraying the entire Kuki community as drug smugglers and poppy planters.

Rejecting these allegations, Bijoy urged Kukis not to consider themselves indigenous to Manipur by distorting history.

• Also Read: Indigenes Must Work Together to Save Manipur-Ashang Kasar

Referring to the notion of dividing Manipur into three separate Union Territories, Ch Bijoy strongly opposed the idea, asserting that it would not lead to a successful outcome for the Kuki community.

He emphasized that the dream of disintegrating Manipur and establishing a separate homeland for Kukis would be futile.

Bijoy questioned the accusations made against the Manipur Government, asking which specific rights of the tribal people have been robbed.

He asserted that the rights of tribal people are protected under the Constitution of India, and the government’s actions must comply with the country’s laws.

In response to the inquiry regarding illegal activities, such as poppy plantations, drug manufacturing, deforestation, poaching, and the influx of undocumented immigrants, Bijoy demanded accountability and questioned whether Indian laws permit such activities.

Chongtham Bijoy raised concerns over the demand to increase the number of seats for tribal MLAs in the State Assembly through a delimitation exercise based on population ratio without addressing the issue of illegal immigrants from Myanmar.

He warned that if illegal intruders from Myanmar are not identified and addressed, it could lead to consequences that the people would not remain silent about.

The political commentator further claimed that there are former MPs of Myanmar among the leaders of Suspension of Operation (SoO) signatory Kuki militant groups, raising concerns about the origin and composition of these groups.

Ch Bijoy questioned why some sections of people are against implementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur and the construction of border fencing. He highlighted the importance of securing the state’s borders and maintaining legal immigration processes.

Chongtham Bijoy’s assertions have sparked discussions and debates about Manipur’s historical context, identity, and future.

As the state grapples with complex issues, the voices of various stakeholders, including political commentators like Ch Bijoy, play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and understanding.