Manipur: Kuki Inpi urges Centre to address state’s pressing issues

Guwahati: The Kuki Inpi Manipur, an apex body of the Kuki tribes in Manipur, while condemning the extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) for another six months, has urged the Central government to intervene, and ensure justice and equality among all communities of the state.

The Kuki Inpi in a press statement on Wednesday said that extension of the AFSPA, limited to the hill areas of Manipur, represents institutionalised bias and gross injustice against the tribal communities, particularly the Kuki-Zo community.

It said the Imphal Valley too is in a troubled state facing a total collapse of law and order compounded by certain radical organisations.

Also Read: Manipur: Age-old territorial disputes turn deadly in Ukhrul

The tribal body alleged that deliberate exclusion of the valley, despite the alarming situation, and partial imposition of AFSPA, serves as a stark reminder of the entrenched biases within the state’s policies.

It also alleged that the state government has clearly violated the principles of equality, justice and the protection of minority rights enshrined in the Constitution of India.

The apex body said that it is utterly reprehensible that the state government operates in direct contradiction to the ideals of a free and democratic India.

Also Read: Manipur: Shutdown over abduction of youths disrupts normal life in valley districts

It also accused the state government of orchestrating and perpetuating the ongoing violence. It said the Kuki-Zo people stand firmly opposed to the state government and its discriminatory and oppressive policies.

The Kuki Inpi further said that the need of the hour is a permanent political solution to the ongoing conflict in the state.

The Manipur government last month extended the AFSPA in the state for another six months with effect from October 1, excluding the areas under the jurisdiction of 19 police stations.