The ethnic crisis in Manipur takes a significant turn. In the ongoing Meitei-Kuki-Zomi conflict, another major ethnic group, Nagas, have chosen not to remain silent or neutral. Instead, they are now vociferously questioning Kuki’s claims and demands. On Monday last, the United Naga Council, a powerful Naga tribal body in the State, challenged Kuki-Zomi position, accusing it of ‘distorting Naga history’ in a bid to push for a ‘separate administration’ or ‘Kuki state’.

Warning it ‘is on false territorial foundation and may unleash new political dynamics’, the statement objected to Chandel and Tengnoupal districts being included among Kuki-Zomi territories as sought by its 10 MLAs in a recent memo to Centre, Israeli PM, European Parliament, UN, etc. It argued ‘Of the districts, the ones carved out from Senapati and Chandel are Congress government’s appeasement policy in garb of administrative convenience and the Nagas’ opposition remains unchanged.’

The Council also warned of ‘illegal immigration– expansion and creation of new villages, columns of illegal camps being built rampantly near Moreh town and surrounding areas to facilitate settlement of intruding Kukis from Myanmar.

If not stopped by Central and State governments, the day won’t be long when the indigenous population will be reduced to a minority.’ With the State Assembly to convene on 29 August, the collision course gets a new entrant.  

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