Kuki Body Rejects State Forces Deployment Plan in Kangchup-Leimakhong region

The Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills has voiced strong opposition to the purported deployment and establishment of Manipur state forces, including the Indian Reserve Battalion, or the IRB, Outpost in the conflict-torn Kangchup and Leimakhong regions within the Sadar Hills Kangpokpi District.

The General Secretary of the Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills, Thangkhup Doungel said that recent developments have brought to light the State Government's plans to deploy and establish state force outposts, notably at Kangchup Geljang village and other areas within Kangchup and Leimakhong.

However, amidst mounting tensions following the Kuki-Zo and Meitei conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023, and the subsequent handling of the conflict by state forces, including the Indian Reserve Battalion, there is a growing sense of mistrust and widespread skepticism regarding their presence and actions, maintained Doungel.

He also underscored that, in light of the current robust and effective security measures already in place by Assam Rifles and other Central forces in the Kangchup and Leimakhong regions, the deployment of additional state forces is deemed superfluous.

Doungel further reiterated that as the paramount authority representing the Kuki Civil Society in Leimakhong and Kangchup areas, we vehemently oppose the proposed deployment of state forces in these regions.

While earnestly urging the attention of SP Kangpokpi to inform the higher authorities about their firm stance, Doungel cautioned that failure to do so may result in untoward incidents, for which the state government will be held accountable.