UKHRUL: A peaceful protest spearheaded by the Sinakeithei Shanao Long was held today in Sinakeithei village, Ukhrul District, Manipur, to voice opposition against the indiscriminate aggression of ‘Kuki narco-terrorists’.
In a press statement issued by the Sinakeithei Shanao Long (the women’s body), the protest aimed to express their grievances against the Kuki narco-terrorists who have established a presence in the western part of Sinakeithei, creating both psychological trauma and physical threats for the village residents. The protestors demanded that the government implement several measures to restore normalcy, including:
Also read | Tourism Thrives Only When Every Stakeholder Plays Their Part: Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma
1. Suspension of Operations: The protesters demanded that the government of India implement the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement ground rules, which the Kuki narco-terrorists have exploited to terrorize and instil fear among innocent citizens. Also, they demanded a comprehensive overhaul, along with a competent authority to oversee and monitor the situation to ensure immediate and appropriate consequences for any infringements. Further, they also reported that Kuki narco-terrorists from the Mt. Sinai Camp and T. Gamnom Camp occupy the Lungter Hill Range, which gives them a strategic vantage point over the entire village.
2. Stifled Education and Economy: The villagers reported that due to its geographical disadvantage and agrarian background, their village has suffered both economically and academically as a result of this conflict. “Despite the presence of two Central Forces—the 4 Mahar Regiment and 131 BSF Battalion—basic survival activities and education have become nearly impossible. We call upon the state and central governments to restore our fundamental right to free and unimpeded movement within and outside our village,” the press statement read.
Also read | Nurturing Music Talent in Nagaland: MUSiK-A Celebrates 10th Anniversary
3. Protection of Our Birthright: The protesters, while asserting that Sinakeithei village is their birthright, stated that defending their land against any foreign invasion should not be misconstrued to serve any political agenda. It also stated that the suffering of women, children, the infirm, and the poor offers no benefit to anyone.
4. Psychological and Physical Damage: “For over two months, Sinakeithei has been turned into a battleground, with Kuki narco-terrorists using bombs and automatic firearms. They show complete disregard for the property damage and psychological trauma inflicted on civilians, including infants, by placing residential areas in their line of fire. It is the duty of a responsible government to conduct area domination patrols and eliminate this unauthorized presence to ensure the safety and security of innocent civilians,” the press statement further stated.
Also read | Mao Observes 17th Martyrdom Anniversary of Lt. Loshuo and Lt. Chakho
Moreover, stating that war and violence have never led to a meaningful or lasting solution, the press communique highlighted that villagers of Sinakeithei and surrounding Kuki villages have shared a familial bond, with Sinakeithei serving as an essential hub for trade, education, and connection to the outside world before and after the emergence of the Meitei-Kuki conflict. They also appealed to the Kuki community to engage with them in a more constructive and civilized manner to bring an end to this violence.
In conclusion, the villagers appeal to all the Nagas around the world for moral support and prayers during these overwhelming times. “We are struggling to find stability, and the warmth of our homes feels like a distant memory. Knowing that we are not alone in this struggle would mean more to us than we can express,” it concluded.