The Committee on Tribal Unity has expressed its deep resentment against, what it says is terror perpetrated by the Meitei mob in the heart of Imphal City, a stone’s throw away from the CM’s residence.
CoTU in a press release on Friday said that around five houses located at New Lambulane, one of Kuki-Zo’s oldest settlements in Imphal, Manipur were burned to the ground last night at approximately 9:30 pm in what appears to be a cynical attempt by the rebellious Meitei mob.
The owners of the incinerated houses CoTU said are:
1) Khaikholam Haokip 2) Haomang Vaiphei 3) Lengpao Vaiphei 4) Ronald Sitlhou and 5) Thanglenmang Kipgen.
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CoTU said it is “puzzled as to why the central paramilitary forces deployed there let loose the antagonistic mob to freely commit such horrendous acts under their control. Although the Central Paramilitary personnel have sealed off every inch of the New Lambulane-Checkon aftermath of the ethnic pogrom against the minority Kuki-Zo groups, the Meetei terrorists and mobs have managed to overwhelm them somehow. The vulnerability of the world’s second largest military has been exposed once again, raising concerns about whether they have aided the mob to carry out the arson. Such brazen disregard for the central authorities by the warmongering Meitei community is a threat to internal security and a direct confrontation with the Union government.”
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“Taking a serious note on AFSPA, the committee questions the rationale behind its abrogation in the valley districts of Manipur considering the warlike situation in these districts. Its suspension has catalised radical Meitei terror groups with sophisticated arms to move freely, causing a law and order issue. Cases of looting, kidnapping, killing, and extortion are rampant. Hence, the committee appeals to the Union Home Ministry to impose AFSPA in the valley districts as well for a long lasting peace,” it added.
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It further continued, “CoTU is exhausted for words to describe the lawlessness in Imphal and the perpetual destruction and arson carried out every now and then by the majority Meiteis on properties and houses belonging to the Kuki-Zo community. The lackadaisical approach of the state as well as the Central government to safeguarding lives and properties belonging to the minority community is extremely deplorable at this vital crossroads.”
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The Committee based out of Kangpokpi district said it “seeks the intervention of the Union Home Ministry to deploy enthusiastic and dedicated army personnel to take strict preventive measures to safeguard and protect the remaining pockets of Kuki-Zo settlements from destruction, illegal occupation, and theft. Otherwise, the state machinery and the Centre will be held responsible should pyromania and wanton destruction of lives and properties in Imphal take their toll in the future.”
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