Thousands of Kukis from Churachandpur took to the streets today to voice their outrage following the leak of an audio tape implicating Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in ethnic cleansing against the Kuki community. The massive rally began at the Anglo-Kuki War Centenary Gate in Leisang village and proceeded to the Peace Ground in Tuibong, where the main program was held.
The public rally was flagged-off by Henlianthang Thanglet, president of the Vaiphei Peoples’ Council (VPC). Protesters, including members from various tribal and student organizations such as Hmar Inpui, Kuki Inpi, United Zou Organization, Gangte Tribe Union, Simte Tribe Council, Thadou Tribe Council, Mizo People Convention Manipur Unit and Mate Tribe Union, gathered in large numbers, chanting slogans demanding accountability from Chief Minister Singh.
At the Peace Ground, leaders from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) delivered speeches emphasizing the urgent need for a separate administration for the Kukis. The rally also featured a solemn one-minute condolence service to honor the victims of alleged state-sponsored ethnic violence.
Various student organizations from Churachandpur have formally submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister’s Office through the Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur. The memorandum outlines several urgent demands in response to recent developments involving Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and the ongoing violence against the Kuki-Zo community.
The student bodies are calling for the immediate arrest and trial of N. Biren Singh following the release of an audio recording in which he allegedly boasts about orchestrating violence against the Kuki-Zo community and ordering attacks on their villages. This revelation has intensified accusations that the Manipur government, dominated by the Meetei community, is complicit in the ethnic persecution of the Kuki-Zo people, who have faced significant violence since May 3, 2023.
In their memorandum, the student bodies have outlined the following key demands:
- Immediate Arrest and Trial of N. Biren Singh: The memorandum demands that the Chief Minister be arrested and subjected to a criminal investigation under the Supreme Court’s supervision. The investigation should include all ministers and officials implicated in the violence against the Kuki-Zo community.
- Strengthening of Buffer Zones: The student bodies call for the reinforcement of buffer zones currently monitored by the Assam Rifles. Despite criticism from the Meetei community, the Assam Rifles have been crucial in maintaining peace and preventing further violence. The memorandum stresses the need for continued and enhanced deployment to protect Kuki-Zo villages from secessionist militants.
- Interim Administration for Kuki-Zo Areas: With Imphal effectively cut off from Kuki-Zo regions, the memorandum demands the establishment of an interim central administration. This body would oversee essential services and infrastructure development in Kuki-Zo areas, addressing critical shortages in medical care, education, and connectivity.
- Formation of a Union Territory for Kuki-Zo Tribals: The memorandum calls for the creation of a Union Territory with its own legislature for the Kuki-Zo community. The student bodies argue that the current situation—marked by severe discrimination and violence—necessitates a separate administration to ensure the safety and development of the Kuki-Zo people.
