29-07-2023 : In the backdrop of the ongoing ethnic clashes in Manipur, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), representing an umbrella group of tribals in the state, has reached out to the opposition alliance, INDIA, seeking its support. The ITLF is demanding a separate administration for the violence-affected region and the immediate implementation of President’s rule in Manipur. In a two-page letter addressed to the opposition parties, the ITLF highlighted the grave situation and urged INDIA to apprise the nation about their plight.
On the same day, twenty-one MPs from the opposition bloc visited Churachandpur, the riot-hit town in Manipur. During their visit, the MPs met with Kuki leaders, members of civil society, and victims of the ethnic strife who were taking refuge in relief camps. The clashes, which began on May 3, have resulted in over 150 deaths, primarily among tribals, leaving thousands displaced and countless homes and churches destroyed.
The ITLF expressed concern about the alleged use of thousands of looted weapons from state armouries in the ongoing “ethnic cleansing campaign.” The blockading of the only national highway leading to the hill districts of Churachandpur has caused a severe shortage of essential commodities and medicine for lakhs of tribals. The situation has created a humanitarian crisis, compelling the ITLF to seek support from the opposition alliance.
The delegation of opposition MPs, led by Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and including representatives from various parties, flew to Churachandpur in two helicopter flights. Their visit aimed to understand the ground reality and hear the voices of both the Kuki and Meitei communities. After visiting the relief camps, the MPs will meet with Governor Anusuiya Uikey to discuss measures for restoring peace in Manipur.
In the midst of the turmoil, a massive protest rally was organized by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) in Imphal. Tens of thousands of demonstrators from five valley districts participated in the rally to oppose the demand for a separate administration for areas inhabited by the Kuki community. The Kuki community, represented by ten MLAs, had earlier demanded a separate administration, citing failures in protecting the Chin-Kuki-Zomi tribals. However, the specifics of their demands remain unclear.
As the situation in Manipur continues to be precarious, the demand for separate administration and the need for immediate intervention have gained prominence. The state’s ethnic diversity and the urgent need for peace and stability are presenting significant challenges for both the government and opposition parties alike. The coming days will be crucial in determining the path towards resolution and restoration in Manipur.