Ukhrul, October 10: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi, on Thursday submitted a memorandum to Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) president Conrad K Sangma during his maiden visit to the district, thanking him for the support extended to displaced Kuki-Zo people taking shelter in Meghalaya and seeking further assistance for their rehabilitation.
In the memorandum, CoTU expressed deep gratitude to Conrad K Sangma and the people of Meghalaya for their “Good Samaritan hospitality” shown towards the internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Manipur who fled their homes following the ethnic violence that broke out on May 3, 2023.
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The committee urged the Meghalaya government to consider several key measures, including waiving school and medical fees for IDP children and patients, reducing house rent for displaced families, and easing documentation procedures for those seeking admission to schools and colleges in the state.
COoTU also appealed for support in resettling displaced Kuki-Zo villagers with adequate access to electricity, water, and security in their current places of stay.
In its appeal, the CoTU, the Kuki-Zo body, called on Conrad K Sangma to push for a lasting political solution to the ongoing crisis, noting that the Kuki-Zo community continues to face hardships as a minority tribal group. It further sought constitutional safeguards under Article 239A as a long-term step towards peace and stability in the region.
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“At Kangpokpi in Manipur, I had the opportunity to meet and interact with various civil societies, organizations, and community leaders. I heard their concerns and the immense suffering faced by the people. It has been our sincerest endeavor to appeal and work together with different stakeholders to rebuild trust and faith among communities. Our communities have suffered for too long, and we need to move forward in peace,” wrote Conrad K Sangma on X.
