Ukhrul: Global Kuki-Zomi-Hmar Women Community of Manipur a group of prominent figures representing the women community of Manipur have opted to boycott the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024 to be held on April 19 (I Phase) and April 29 (II Phase). The decision to boycott the upcoming polls it stated, “does not come lightly, but as a culmination of their disillusionment and lack of trust in the current administrations, both at the national and state levels.”
In a March 27, 2024 letter addressed to Rajiv Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner of India, stating a community that has long been an integral part of the rich cultural mosaic of India, the Global Kuki-Zomi-Hmar Community of Manipur representatives outlined the core issues driving the boycott decision.
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- Pogrom and Injustice: The lack of justice concerning ethnic cleansing, displacement, and atrocities against Kuki-Zomi-Hmar people remains unresolved, perpetuating an environment of impunity.
- Destruction of Homes and Places of Worship: Extensive damage to property, including houses, villages, churches, and synagogues, underscores the magnitude of conflict and inadequate remedial measures.
- Looted Arms and Unabated Violence: The government’s failure to address arms looting and resultant violence contributes to a climate of fear and insecurity.
- Lack of Rebuilding and Humanitarian Aid: Displaced individuals continue to face neglect and lack essential support, reflecting a disregard for humanitarian needs.
- Educational Deprivation: Disruption of education for Kuki-Zomi-Hmar students indicates oversight of their rights and future prospects.
- Absence of Political Dialogue: Persistent avoidance of political negotiations disregards democratic principles of dialogue and dispute resolution.
- Ignored Demand for Separate Administration: Neglecting the demand for separate administration overlooks cultural identity and governance needs.
- Discrimination of IDPs outside Manipur: Failure to facilitate voting rights for internally displaced persons outside Manipur amounts to disenfranchisement.
The Global Kuki-Zomi-Hmar Women Community of Manipur in the letter, with a heavy heart, stated it views participation in the upcoming elections under these circumstances as legitimizing marginalization and suffering. The boycott decision is a call for genuine engagement to address grievances and seek equitable solutions.
The 18 signatories include esteemed individuals such as social workers, journalists, former members of parliament, and advocates for human rights.
1. Ms. Mary Tombing, Social Worker for Human Rights, Lamka
2. Ms. Ninglun Hanghal, Freelance Journalist
3. Ms. Hahat Touthang, Social Worker for Human Rights, Kangpokpi
4. Ms. Jojou Haipi, Social Worker for Human Rights, Kangpokpi
5. Ms. Pari JC, Social Worker for Human Rights, Lamka
6. Ms. Rebecca Hmar, Social Worker for Human Rights, Lamka
7. Ms. Kim Gangte, Former Member of Parliament, Outer Manipur
8. Dr. Mary Grace Zou, Convenor, Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum Delhi
9. Ms. Jacinta Simte, Co-Convenor, Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum Delhi
10. Dr. Tara Manchin Hangzo, Advisor, Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum Delhi
11. Ms. H. Boinu, Advisor, Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum Delhi
12. Ms. Lhingkim Haokip, Member, Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum Delhi
13. Ms. Esther Thangjom Schomberg, Convenor, Global B’nei Menashe
14. Ms. Moi Sarah Gangte Wolfe, Co-Convenor, Global B’nei Menashe
15. Ms. Bawithieng Aurith Gangte, Co-Convenor, Global B’nei Menashe
16. Ms. Niang Hangzo, NAMTA – US
17. Ms. Linda Mawii, Unau Welfare France
18. Ms. Ruati Buongpui, World Kuki-Zo Intellectual Council – US
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