In a collective effort to address the ongoing chaos in Manipur, 10 Kuki Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have come forward, shedding light on the tumultuous situation in the state. The MLAs have presented an alternative solution to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging immediate attention and intervention.
In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Kuki MLAs alleged that the on-going conflict situation in Manipur has turned from bad to worse as is evident from the bizarre incident at Imphal- Kangla Fort on the 24th January 2024 wherein the Meitei MLAs and Ministers of 12 Manipur Legislative Assembly numbering 37 and the 2 Meitei MPs were compelled to take oath of allegiance for the so called Meitei Militia- Arambai Tenggol in contravention to the oath taken under the Constitution of India as elected representatives, highlight the persisting disorder and violence, particularly targeting the Kuki community.
“On that day, three Meitei MLAs were publicly humiliated and physically assaulted inside Kangla Fort by the Arambal Tenggol amidst heavy security deployment inside, outside and at all gates of the Complex. However, the Chief Minister has maintained eloquent silence on the public harassment of his Law-maker colleagues. One can only imagine the fate of minority Tribals, Muslims, Nepalis, Marwaris, Biharis and others under such harrowing circumstances where a parallel Government is run by the Arambai Tenggols.”
The MLAs maintained that since May 3, 2023, these Arambai Tenggol were waging war against the Kuki-Zo people. The division within the inhabitants of Manipur has been significantly more aggravated on communal lines by the recent act of the Arambai Tenggol. These militias were openly roaming in the streets with arms looted from the Government armouries. The Central Security Forces has become mute spectators in the absence of AFSPA.
Lawlessness has become new law in the Capital city of Imphal, the MLAs said, adding that this Taliban- like act of Arambai Tenggol shows the total breakdown of the Indian Constitutional machineries in Manipur valley. The State Government is forced to comply with the bidding of Arambai Tenggols. Such instance of militia taking over the streets despite the presence of democratically elected popular Government is unprecedented in Independent India. Hence, the need for an alternative political solution is urgently imperative at this critical juncture, it urged.
In their proposal to PM Modi, the Kuki representatives emphasize the need for a comprehensive strategy that ensures the safety, rights, and well-being of all communities in Manipur. The alternative solution aims to foster unity, harmony, and equitable development, countering the current atmosphere of turmoil and division.
It is pertinent to mention that a representation highlighting the present volatile situation has been sent to the Home Minister, Government of India on 24" January 2024, requesting his immediate attention and intervention on the following issues; one-sided (Biased) Resolution adopted by Legislators of 12-Manipur Legislative Assembly on 21-01-2024 on abrogation of Suspension of Operation (SoO), immediate withdrawal of Meitei State Police Commandos from Moreh and re-imposition of AFSPA in Manipur Valley. However, the matter remains unattended till date.
Therefore, we, the 10 Kuki elected MLAs reiterated our demand for Separate Administration from Manipur under specific provisions of the Constitution of India, the MLAs added.
The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128