The Kuki-Zo community perceives this as a provocative act, citing accusations against the Chief Minister of inciting violence against their people
KRC TIMES Manipur Bureau
IMPHAL : The Kuki-Zo community across the Sadar Hills of Kangpokpi District staged a massive protest today against the proposed withdrawal of the Assam Rifles from Manipur and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s planned passage through their area en route to a visit in Senapati District on August 3.
Thousands of demonstrators gathered at Gamgiphai, the buffer zone between Kangpokpi and Imphal West, participating in sit-ins and other forms of protest. They voiced strong opposition to the alleged plan to replace the Assam Rifles with other central forces, asserting that the Assam Rifles are a neutral force crucial for maintaining peace and order in their region.
The protesters were particularly outraged by Chief Minister Biren Singh’s intention to pass through Kangpokpi on his way to Senapati. The Kuki-Zo community perceives this as a provocative act, citing accusations against the Chief Minister of inciting violence against their people.
Ng. Lun Kipgen, spokesperson for the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), expressed deep mistrust of the Chief Minister’s recent meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Kipgen questioned the motives behind the complaints against the Assam Rifles and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reconsider his support for Biren Singh.
“Why does he plan to listen to N. Biren Singh?” Kipgen asked. “We need a neutral force under the Union Home Minister to ensure stability in our region.”
Kipgen further criticized the governance of Biren Singh, alleging alliances with armed militias that endanger law and order. He urged Prime Minister Modi to recognize the negative impact of Biren Singh’s administration on the Kuki-Zo community.
“Modi, do not force the Kuki-Zo community to be under such a government. We need a valid administrative setup within the Kuki-Zo-dominated area,” Kipgen added.
The Kuki-Zo community has warned Chief Minister Biren Singh against attempting to pass through their areas, emphasizing that he is not welcome in their lands due to his alleged role in violence against their community.
