Ukhrul, September 1: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to strife-torn Manipur, the World Meetei Council (WMC) urged the Prime Minister to confine his visit to either Churachandpur or Imphal.
The Prime Minister is likely to visit the northeastern state in the second week of September, with his proposed itinerary including Imphal, the state capital and Churachandpur, one of the worst violence-hit districts, according to reports. This would be PM Modi’s first visit to Manipur after nearly two and a half years of violence.
In a memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister on Monday, the WMC stated that the choice of two venues may unintentionally send a message legitimizing the idea of “Kukiland” or “Zalengam,” which could further deepen divisions.
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“We heartily welcome your visit and sincerely hope it brings hope and healing to the state. However, it has also been reported that your programme includes two public meetings – one in Churachandpur and the other in Imphal. In this regard, WMC humbly submits that while your visit is welcomed, the choice of two venues may unintentionally send a message legitimizing the idea of “Kukiland” or “Zalengam,” which could further deepen divisions,” the WMC stated.
The World Meetei Council added, “As you are aware, Manipur is an ancient land with a rich and unified history. The indigenous people of Manipur would not appreciate any move that may appear to dilute the integrity and idea of Manipur.”
The World Meetei Council urged the Prime Minister that his visit be confined to either Churachandpur or Imphal, instead of holding two separate meetings. The WMC also maintained that Imphal, being the capital, belongs to every community of Manipur, and a gathering there would send a clear message of unity.
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The WMC, in its memorandum signed by its chairman Heigrujam Nabashyam, also highlighted the crucial role of the Assam Rifles in the state and stated that the Assam Rifles, with their strong presence and reach, hold the key to ensuring peace and normalcy in the state.
“The Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups are known to function side by side with them. Given their strong presence and reach, they hold the key to ensuring peace and normalcy,” the WMC stated.
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It further stated that the Prime Minister could activate the Army and Assam Rifles to take effective action against the armed Chin-Kuki groups responsible for the blockade of the National Highways in the violence-hit state.
“Another pressing concern is the blockade of National Highways. The people of Manipur strongly wish to see them reopened for all communities without delay. We believe, Sir, that your words alone could activate the Army and Assam Rifles to take effective action against the armed Chin-Kuki groups responsible for the blockade. It is deeply unacceptable that the Meetei people remain excluded from access to the National Highways, despite your strong leadership at the national level,” the WMC added.
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