The Kuki Inpi Manipur has vehemently denied any peace talks between Kuki-Zo representatives and the Meiteis, contrary to claims made by Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
In a press release issued on Friday, the Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body representing the Kuki community, expressed its surprise at the reports of supposed peace talks. The organization stated it has no knowledge of any such discussions taking place and remains committed to a political boycott of the Manipur state government. The Kuki Inpi accused the state government of orchestrating and perpetuating persecution against the Kuki-Zo people, utilizing government machinery to inflict extensive damage.
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“The Manipur state government continues its ruthless campaign against our people, causing untold damage,” the statement read. “On that account, a supposed ‘Peace Talk’ between the Kuki-Zo people and the Meitei can only be termed as overly optimistic.”
The Kuki Inpi also said that the Kuki-Zo people, who have been victims of what they describe as a state-sponsored ethnic cleansing campaign, cannot negotiate with their oppressors for justice and equality. The organization has long demanded Union Territory status with a legislature for the Kuki-Zo people, a request that has been forwarded to the Government of India. The Kuki Inpi insists this demand is the only legitimate means to achieve equality, justice, and safeguard the rights and privileges of the Kuki-Zo people as equal citizens of India.
“Any supposed peace talk or political negotiation without the knowledge of the Kuki Inpi and its constituent organizations is only illusory. The Kuki Inpi and its constituent organizations are the only legitimate bodies to maneuver a way forward for the Kuki-Zo people,” the statement said.
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