Kuki-Zo Village Volunteers in Manipur Open to Disarmament If Demands Are Met
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Kuki-Zo Community village volunteers have urged the Central government to restore peace in Manipur, expressing readiness to disarm if their four key demands are met, which include a separate administration and withdrawal of police.
Key Takeaways
- Kuki-Zo volunteers demand immediate government action.
- Willingness to disarm contingent upon four key demands.
- Violence since May 3 has led to self-defense arms.
- Call for separate administration for Kuki-Zo areas.
- Emphasis on peaceful resolution and justice.
Imphal, Feb 26 (NationPress) A coordinating committee representing the Kuki-Zo Community village volunteers has called upon the Central government to take swift actions to restore peace, security, and normalcy for the tribal communities and the state of Manipur. They expressed their readiness to lay down arms if their four-point demands are fulfilled.
The Village Volunteers Coordinating Committee (VVCC) reported that since the eruption of violence on May 3, 2023, the Kuki-Zo community has endured continuous assaults from state-sponsored militia groups and other factions.
In a statement, the VVCC mentioned, "The ongoing atrocities and inadequate protection from the government have compelled us to take up arms in self-defense."
While recognizing the Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla's appeal for the surrender of all illegal arms, the VVCC reiterated their four demands necessary for them to disarm in the pursuit of lasting peace and security in the state.
They asserted, "We are confident that these objectives can only be realized if our demands are addressed."
Their requests consist of the establishment of a separate administration (Union Territory with legislative powers) for areas inhabited by Kuki-Zo tribes, the withdrawal of Manipur Police from Kuki-Zo regions, the complete surrender of arms taken by Meitei groups, and legal protections for Kuki-Zo village volunteers.
The VVCC stated, "The significant divide between the Hill districts and the Valley communities has made peaceful coexistence impossible."
They emphasized that the Kuki-Zo people have consistently pursued peace and are dedicated to a peaceful resolution. "We are not a threat to national security. Our demands are focused on ensuring justice, safety, and long-term stability in the area," they said.
The statement concluded, "The process of laying down arms by village volunteers does not necessitate third-party involvement. We are prepared to engage in direct dialogues to implement these measures and strive for enduring peace."
