Ukhrul: The Kuki Inpi Manipur and the Kuki Chiefs Association issued a strong statement opposing the proposed border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border, warning it poses a grave threat to the cultural, traditional, and historical rights of indigenous tribal communities. In a press release on Saturday, the two apex bodies expressed concerns that the fence would disrupt long-established cross-border ties essential to maintaining cultural, social, and familial connections.
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According to the statement, Kuki communities have historically shared deep-rooted social, cultural, and economic bonds across the border, facilitated by the Free Movement Regime. This regime has long enabled cross-border interaction, including trade, traditional ceremonies, and community gatherings. KIM and KCA warned that imposing a physical barrier could sever these essential ties, endangering communal identity and cultural continuity.
The KIM further noted that although multiple northeastern states share borders with Myanmar, the fencing proposal primarily targets Manipur. Instead of advancing border fencing, the leaders urged the government to address ongoing ethnic issues in Manipur. “It is as well crucial to note that the border fencing; despite Nagaland, Mizoram and Aurunachal sharing same borders with Myanmar, the emphasis is laid on Manipur that has been in an intense conflict for more than a year now. The government must instead focus on solving the long standing ethnic persecution perpetrated by the Manipur state government against the minority Kukis,” the press statement said.
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The statement also underlined the unique geographical and social challenges in the region. “The imposition of artificial barriers risks fracturing our communities, isolating families, and erasing the continuity of cultural practices vital to our identity” read the statement as the two civil bodies called on authorities to respect tribal heritage and ensure any border policy is developed in consultation with indigenous communities.
The Kuki Inpi also warned that any decision made without community consent would be viewed as a direct threat to Kuki identity and culture. They affirmed the community’s resolve to oppose any measure infringing on their rights and cultural traditions.
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