Kangpokpi, August 2: The Kuki Inpi Manipur has submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting urgent intervention to reconsider replacing the Assam Rifles (AR) with the Central Reserved Police Force (CRPF) in the Manipur state.
The KIM expressed deep concern over this proposed replacement, which was demanded by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) without proper consultation with local communities. They argue that replacing the AR, known for its positive rapport and deep-rooted presence in Manipur, could lead to instability and perceived bias against the Kuki-Zo community amidst ongoing ethnic tensions.
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The memorandum stated that valley-based organizations (COCOMI) lack authority beyond Buffer Zones and should not influence decisions affecting Kuki-Zo territories. The Kuki Inpi insisted that the government’s security and administrative arrangements must reflect the will and sentiments of the Kuki-Zo people to ensure their safety.
Further, KIM stated that, the “Assam Rifles, with its deep-rooted presence and experience in the Manipur region has maintained a positive rapport with the local population; with a long history of friendship demonstrating trust and reliability. The CRPF, while a commendable force in its own right, may not possess the same level of familiarity with the local socio- political landscape and history, which could lead to unintended consequences and increased instability.”
“In the light of these pressing concerns, the Kuki Inpi would like to appeal to all concerned to reconsider the replacement of Assam Rifles which could exacerbate existing tensions. The Kuki Inpi herewith reiterate our strong objection to the subject matter and will not tolerate any element that undermines the will and aspirations of our people,” Kuki Inpi Manipur said.