The Kuki Inpi Manipur has strongly condemned what it describes as a state-sponsored attack on the Sejang and Mongbung villages in Jiribam District. According to the Kuki Inpi, the assault began around 9:40 A.M. and was carried out by a combined force of Meitei State Forces and Valley Based Insurgent Groups (VBIGs), including the Arambai Tenggol.
The Kuki Inpi further criticized the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for allegedly failing to maintain neutrality during the conflict. They accuse Huidrom Premjit, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the CRPF, of colluding with Meitei militants, leading to the death of a CRPF jawan.
The organization views the attacks on Kuki-Zo villages as part of a broader campaign of ethnic persecution led by the Manipur state government and radical Meitei leaders. These incidents have severely disrupted the daily lives and security of the Kuki-Zo community, forcing hundreds to flee their homes. Many of these displaced villagers are now residing in relief camps.
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“The ongoing oppression by Meitei armed groups in Jiribam has exacerbated the already dire situation. There are now over 45,000 displaced Kuki-Zo people, with the Jiribam Campaign further adding to their distress,” said Kuki Inpi.
In response, the Kuki Inpi has urgently called on the Government of India to take immediate action to ensure the safety and security of the Kuki-Zo people. They demand the withdrawal of Meitei central armed forces from Kuki-Zo areas and a prohibition on Meitei state forces operating in these regions. The continued presence of these forces, according to the Kuki Inpi, only exacerbates tensions and undermines efforts to restore peace.
The Kuki Inpi also pointed out the alleged misuse of power by certain officials, naming Huidrom Premjit, DIG (Ops.) CRPF, and Nectar Sanjembam, Senior Superintendent of Police (Ops.), Manipur Police, as key figures involved in targeting Kuki-Zo civilians.
“The persistent violence and targeted aggression are clear indications that the current administrative framework is failing to protect the rights and lives of the Kuki-Zo people,” the statement read. “Establishing a distinct administrative region for the Kuki-Zo people is crucial to provide security, representation, and autonomy, ensuring peace and stability in the region.”