GG News Bureau
Imphal, 31st August. Members of the Kuki tribes staged rallies and protests across various parts of Manipur today, calling for the creation of a separate administration amidst the ongoing ethnic violence in the state. The demonstrations occurred in Kuki-dominated areas including Churachandpur’s Leishang, Kangpokpi’s Keithelmanbi, and Tengnoupal’s Moreh.
Clashes were reported at the district border between protesters in Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi and volunteers in Naga-dominated Senapati who formed a human chain to block the protests. The Kuki community is demanding the establishment of a Union Territory with its own legislature, citing the need for greater autonomy and protection amid ongoing ethnic tensions.
The rallies featured slogans against Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who is affiliated with the BJP. Protesters criticized Singh over a purported leaked tape, alleging that he was responsible for engineering the Manipur crisis. The Chief Minister’s office has dismissed the tape as “doctored.” The tape, along with affidavits from those claiming its authenticity, has been submitted to a commission of inquiry formed by the Home Ministry.
In response to the Kuki protests, businesses in the Meitei-dominated Imphal valley complied with a call from the Meitei Leima women’s group to shut down, and public transport services were suspended. This protest action reflected the deep divisions within the state.
Meanwhile, the ongoing unrest has led to further violence. The house of Manipur BJP spokesperson and Thadou tribe leader T Michael Lamjathang Haokip was vandalized and set on fire in Churachandpur district. This marks the third attack on his residence since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023. Haokip condemned the attack, asserting that it would not deter him from advocating for the Thadou tribe’s distinct identity.
The Kuki-led protests have seen limited participation from other recognized tribes in Manipur, who have issued public statements distancing themselves from the Kuki movement. The demand for a separate administration, which gained momentum after the May 2023 clashes, reflects long-standing tensions between the Kuki community and the Meitei majority.
The violent conflict between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes has resulted in over 220 deaths and displaced nearly 50,000 people. The Meiteis seek inclusion under the Scheduled Tribes category, while the Kukis, who have ethnic ties with Myanmar’s Chin State and Mizoram, are pushing for a separate administration, citing historical grievances and unequal distribution of resources and power.
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