In a decisive move, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has announced pre-emptive measures in response to escalating tensions and perceived threats against the Kuki-Zo tribal community in Manipur. This comes after repeated efforts by the Union Home Ministry and the Manipur state government to remove the 22 and 9 Assam Rifles from the Sadar Hills in Kangpokpi and Kangvai, Churachandpur, which CoTU interprets as a tacit approval of what they describe as a “mass genocide program” targeting the Kuki-Zo community.
Recent revelations have intensified fears within the Kuki-Zo community, particularly an audio clip purportedly featuring Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, in which he allegedly admits to orchestrating ethnic cleansing efforts. These claims have heightened concerns among the minority community, who have long appealed to the Government of India for protection.
Adding to these fears, CoTU General Secretary, Lamminlun Singsit highlighted a coordinated strategy allegedly led by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and his emissary, Promod Singh of Meitei Leepun.
He said that on June 6, 2023, Promod Singh allegedly vowed on national television to “annihilate” the 15-kilometer stretch of Kangpokpi, a threat reportedly echoed by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on June 7, 2023, when they declared a “Clarion Call” to wage war on the Kuki-Zo community.
In light of these developments, he said, CoTU has resolved to take pre-emptive measures to protect the Kuki-Zo community from what they believe is an imminent “second wave” of ethnic violence.
CoTU General Secretary warned that any untoward incidents resulting from the ongoing tensions will be the responsibility of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the State Government of Manipur.
He also issued a call to the Kuki-Zo community to remain vigilant, united, and refrain from inciting further animosity. The committee’s statement reflects the deepening crisis in Manipur, where ethnic divisions threaten to plunge the region into further violence.
