Manipur Strife: Kuki-Zo Tribes Declare Readiness for Self-Governance
CONFLICT
Imphal: In a new twist to the unceasing ethnic conflict, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), representing the Kuki-Zo tribes, has come out with a big claim, saying that they are readied to establish a “self-governed separate administration” in their dominant areas, irrespective of recognition from the central government.
This came amid the unceasing turmoil in the region that unfolded in early May this year, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.
Maun Tombing, the general secretary of ITLF, firmly asserted the group’s stance during a massive protest rally held on Wednesday at Churachandpur district.
He emphasized their intent to form a self-government within weeks if their demands for autonomy from the Manipur government continue to be ignored by the government.
This resolute position by the Kuki-Zo community emerges subsequent to discussions held in Churachandpur district on Nov 9 with Ministry of Home Affairs officials, led by AK Mishra, the mediator in talks between the Indian government and Chin Kuki Zo rebel groups operating under a Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement.
The intricate situation in Manipur involves around 17 Kuki and 8 Zo armed groups engaged in the Suspension of Operation (Soo) a tripartite ceasefire agreement with the Centre and the state government. These agreement, initiated in 2008 to foster political dialogue and quell hostilities, have seen a shift in focus from a separate Kuki state to a demand for a Union Territory with substantial financial and administrative autonomy.
Generally, there has been semblance of normalcy limping back in the state with de escalate of violence until the recent flare up in ethnic strife, primarily in the border areas between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities, raising concerns.
Reports indicate clashes triggered by alleged attacks from Kuki-Zo militias targeting Meitei settlements and farmers, leading to escalating violence.
In response, Interlocutor AK Mishra has urged the ITLF to refrain from resorting to violent measures, taking into account the reported surge in coordinated violence between these communities.