Are Kuki-Zo Legislators Considering Joining the New Government in Manipur?
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Synopsis
In a surprising development, two Kuki MLAs from Manipur have made it clear that there is no decision to join the new government. This statement comes amidst ongoing discussions about a separate administration for their community, raising questions about the political landscape in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Kuki MLAs deny joining the new government.
- Discussions focused on a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo community.
- Public urged to ignore misleading rumors.
- Ethnic violence has caused significant casualties and displacement.
- Manipur remains under President's Rule.
Imphal, Nov 17 (NationPress) Two MLAs from the Kuki community in Manipur have publicly stated that there has been no consensus among the legislators regarding joining the newly formed government in the state.
In a joint declaration, Kuki MLAs Haokholet Kipgen and Chinlunthang mentioned that during the meeting in Guwahati, discussions were held concerning a popular government in Manipur.
However, they emphasized that no agreements were reached by the Kuki-Zo MLAs regarding joining the new administration.
Additionally, they pointed out that several Kuki-Zo MLAs did not attend the Guwahati meeting.
The two MLAs highlighted that there was a thorough discussion about advocating for a separate administration tailored for the Kuki-Zo community, given the seriousness of the current situation.
They urged the public to refrain from being influenced by misleading rumors, as stated in their announcement.
Furthermore, they urged media outlets to avoid disseminating unsubstantiated and unverified news to preserve their credibility and integrity.
The ten tribal MLAs representing the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi community, along with nearly all community organizations in Manipur, have formally requested the central government to establish a separate administration or Union Territory with legislative powers for their community.
In a separate statement from the militant groups Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United Peoples' Front (UPF), both signatories of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the central and Manipur governments on August 22, 2008, reiterated that no decisions had been made by the Kuki-Zo MLAs to join a popular government.
The KNO and UPF affirmed, "The Kuki-Zo MLAs and the unified Kuki-Zo leadership remain steadfast in their commitment to pursue the political demand for a separate administration or Union Territory as their top priority."
The UPF and KNO comprise a coalition of 23 underground factions that have signed the SoO with the government.
Approximately 2,266 members of these militant groups are currently residing in designated camps in the hilly regions of Manipur.
The tragic ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, following a 'Tribal Solidarity March' to protest the Meitei community's request for Scheduled Tribe status, has resulted in over 260 fatalities, 1,500 injuries, and the displacement of more than 70,000 individuals.
Since February 13, Manipur has been governed under President's Rule, just four days after N. Biren Singh resigned as Chief Minister on February 9.
The 60-member Manipur Assembly is currently in a state of suspended animation and has a term that extends until 2027.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the concerns raised by the Kuki-Zo legislators. Their commitment to pursuing a separate administration highlights the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur. It is essential for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure peace and stability in the region.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current political situation among Kuki MLAs in Manipur?
The Kuki MLAs have denied any plans to join the new government, emphasizing that no decisions have been made on this front.
What discussions took place during the Guwahati meeting?
The meeting focused on the concept of a popular government in Manipur, but no consensus was reached regarding joining the government.
What is the Kuki-Zo community's demand?
They are advocating for a separate administration or Union Territory to address their political needs.
How has the recent violence affected the Kuki-Zo community?
The ethnic violence has resulted in over 260 deaths, thousands of injuries, and significant displacement within the community.
What role do the KNO and UPF play in this situation?
The KNO and UPF represent a coalition of militant groups advocating for the political demands of the Kuki-Zo community.
