APHLC Responds to CEM Tuliram Ronghang's Statement on Kuki-Zo Displaced Persons in Karbi Anglong

The All Party Hills Leaders Conference (APHLC) has issued a statement addressing comments made by the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), Mr. Tuliram Ronghang, regarding the influx of Kuki-Zo displaced from Manipur. During a land patta distribution function in Centre Bazar, Karbi Anglong, on November 25, 2024, Mr. Ronghang expressed that he would not allow the Kuki-Zo refugees to remain in Karbi Anglong, citing concerns about potential ethnic conflicts between the Kuki-Zo and the Karbi communities.

In response, the APHLC condemned the CEM's remarks, stating that it is not the role of a responsible leader to decide whether refugees should be allowed to stay in the region. The APHLC emphasized that the Assam government and the KAAC are legally obligated to offer shelter and protection to any displaced persons, including the Kuki-Zo displaced people. The statement also called for a strong condemnation of the Manipur state government for its failure to prevent the ongoing ethnic violence between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in Manipur.

The APHLC further urged that the KAAC and the Assam government should prioritize humanitarian aid to the Kuki-Zo displaced person, who are presumed to be in distress. Relief camps should be established to provide them with shelter, food, and other necessary support.

Additionally, the APHLC pointed out an apparent inconsistency in the CEM’s stance, noting that Mr. Ronghang has not raised concerns about the entry of large numbers of Hindu Bengali refugees from Bangladesh or illegal immigrants from the neighboring country. The statement highlighted the presence of Bangladeshi nationals in Karbi Anglong, citing reports that up to 150,000 Bangladeshis are in the district, many of whom are not listed on the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The APHLC questioned why the CEM had not taken action on these illegal immigrants while focusing solely on the Kuki-Zo refugees.

The APHLC also expressed concern over the potential for political manipulation, suggesting that the CEM’s remarks could be part of a larger agenda aimed at inciting ethnic tensions, possibly at the instigation of national political groups such as the RSS and Bangasena. The APHLC emphasized that the people of Karbi Anglong, including various indigenous communities, will not be provoked into conflict and remain united against divisive forces.

Finally, the APHLC reiterated its support for the demands of the Uripok Apunba Lup and Uripok Nupi Apunba Lup in Manipur, opposing the re-imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and condemning the violence against innocent civilians in the region. The statement called for peace and reconciliation between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities and criticized the central government's handling of the unrest in Manipur.

The APHLC’s statement concluded with a call for the restoration of peace and the return of displaced persons to their homes once stability is achieved in Manipur.