The recent resolutions adopted by the ruling MLAs on 18 November serve as a stark reminder of the autocratic leadership style employed by Chief Minister Biren Singh and his Arambai Tenggol militia in Manipur. These resolutions highlight the extent to which Biren Singh and his militia have been able to exert control over the legislators, who are seemingly reduced to mere puppets following the dictates of the Chief Minister. Despite fully aware that Biren Singh and his militia were the instigators of the conflict that has brought chaos and destruction to the state, the MLAs appear to be powerless to challenge his authority. The lack of autonomy and integrity among the MLAs is evident in their compliance with Biren Singh’s oppressive directives, which prioritize his own interests over the welfare of the state and its citizens. The pervasive atmosphere of fear and intimidation, perpetuated by the Tenggols, further stifles any dissent or opposition within the ruling party. This pattern of systematic suppression and manipulation only serves to reinforce the cycle of violence and abuse of power orchestrated by Chief Minister Biren Singh and his loyal followers.
The resolution to review and withdraw AFSPA in areas falling under the jurisdiction of 6 police stations is a serious joke. The decision appears to be nothing more than an attempt to appease his militant groups and radicalized public without any real intent to address the underlying issues. At a critical juncture when the central government would find it necessary to enforce the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the entirety of the Imphal valley, the decision by the MLAs to reconsider the notification issued on 14-11-24 appears to be a blatant disregard for the urgent security concerns in the region. It seems as though Biren Singh, the Chief Minister, is more concerned about appeasing militant groups and bolstering his own political position rather than prioritizing the safety and well-being of the people. By attempting to undermine the central government's efforts to maintain law and order, Biren Singh's actions only serve to exacerbate the existing security challenges in the region and risk further endangering the lives of innocent civilians. Biren Singh just wants AFSPA to be removed from the valley so that his militant groups can run amok before the powerless central security forces while he holds onto his chief minister's seat. The central government must reconsider this ill-advised resolution and prioritize the safety and security of the people above all else.
Before launching mass operations against the Kuki-Zo volunteers, the state government must prioritize addressing the atrocities committed by the Arambai Tenggols and Meitei militants. These ruthless individuals have callously murdered over 50 Kuki-Zo women and children since May 2023, showcasing a blatant disregard for human life. It is imperative that justice is served for these innocent victims before moving forward with any further actions. By holding these perpetrators accountable, the government can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens. Only after addressing this grave injustice can the state proceed with effectively addressing the larger conflict at hand.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) should focus its efforts on understanding the root cause of the recent flare-up in Jiribam, which happened unexpectedly after a period of relative calm. The peace that previously existed between the Meitei Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the tribal CSOs was shattered when the Jiribam unit of Arambai Tenggol instigated violence by attacking Zairawn village and committing heinous acts such as the rape and murder of Mrs. Zosangkim Hmar on 07-11-24. It is crucial for the NIA to investigate why these provocations took place and who was behind them. This violence was a result of a conspiracy orchestrated in Imphal, involving the OC of Jiribam, Inspector Sagapam Ibotombi Singh, who then manipulated the CRPF into participating in a deadly plot that led to the killing of 10 Kuki-Zo volunteers. Each of these incidents must be thoroughly examined to ensure justice is served and prevent such tragedies from occurring again in the future.
In this lawless state, where the chief minister openly admitted to initiating the war, his leadership should be considered illegitimate. Furthermore, the state police are collaborating with unlawful Meitei militants and Arambai Tenggol in perpetrating violence and destruction against the Kuki Zo people. In light of these circumstances, it is perplexing to declare Kuki-Zo volunteers as unlawful. One must question the rationale behind such label, especially when the very government overseeing these actions operates in a state of lawlessness. Before branding Kuki-Zo volunteers as unlawful, the legitimacy and integrity of the state government itself must be called into question.
The central government surely needs to take steps to bring back peace and normalcy in the region. It is imperative for lasting peace in the area that the central government grants a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo people. The establishment of a separate administration will enable the Kuki-Zo people to govern themselves and make decisions that are in the best interest of their community. It is a crucial step towards building a harmonious and peaceful society where all ethnic groups can coexist peacefully and work towards a common goal of development and prosperity.
(This is a press statement of Kuki-Zo Council issued on November 20, 2024)
The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128
