IMPHAL: The Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur (LNCM), while strongly reacting to the demand of Kuki organisations “seeking relocation of Kuki villages from Ukhrul district to Kangpokpi region”, said that the demand “is irrational and totally unacceptable”.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the LNC said, “At a time when the people of Manipur are already facing immense uncertainty and instability due to the prevailing conflict across various regions of the state, the LNC is deeply shocked and disturbed by the recent demands and ultimatum reportedly issued by certain Kuki civil society organizations (CSOs) in Ukhrul to the Government of Manipur”.
The Liangmai apex body asserted that the reported demand seeking relocation of Kuki villages from Ukhrul district to Kangpokpi region is irrational and totally unacceptable.
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According to the LNC, Kangpokpi is a multi-ethnic region where various communities have historically coexisted. However, the region is already under severe strain due to the presence of a large number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) resulting from the recent ethnic conflict in the state, added the LNC.
The Liangmai body reasoned that any attempt to relocate additional populations into the region would only aggravate tensions and could potentially trigger serious unrest and humanitarian complications. “Therefore, it is imperative of the state agencies to relocate and deport the IDPs to their place of origin”, the Liangmai body added.
“It is forthcoming on the part of the responsible Kuki CSOs of Kangpokpi on their position if they stand by the status-quo of co-existence or approve the ultimatum issued by Kukis living in Ukhrul.
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The LNC also noted with serious concern that attempts to consolidate Kuki populations into a single geographical region appear to be closely associated with the political aspiration commonly referred to as ‘Zelengam’. “Such a design aimed at territorial consolidation and eventual autonomy is strongly opposed by the LNC. Any move in this direction would only deepen divisions, derail peace initiatives, and further destabilize the already fragile situation in Manipur”, the Liangmai body further asserted.
The Liangmai body, therefore, urged the Government of Manipur not to succumb to pressure from “vested interests” and to carefully consider the grave consequences that such demands could bring upon the state. “Entertaining such demands would not resolve the situation but would only worsen the crisis—amounting to jumping from the frying pan into the fire”, it compared.
The LNC further expressed grave concern that the indigenous populations in several parts of the region are increasingly feeling threatened due to the continuous influx of outsiders and the growing pressure created by IDPs”. It added by explaining that turning Kangpokpi region into dumping grounds will only intensify social tensions and temper the demography of the indigenous inhabitants.
The LNC then said issues arising in a particular locality must be resolved within that locality through lawful administrative mechanisms. Transferring or exporting problems from one region to another will only spread instability and conflict across wider areas of the state, it added.
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The Liangmai Naga Council then reiterated its “firm and unwavering stand” in safeguarding the rights, land, and security of the indigenous people of the region. The LNC added that it “remains committed to protecting these interests through all lawful and democratic means”.
The LNC also said it will stand resolute in defense of the rights and security of its people and will not remain silent in the face of any attempt to destabilize the region or undermine peaceful coexistence among communities.
The Liangmai body then said it issued this statement in the interest of justice, peace, and the protection of indigenous rights.
Meanwhile, the LNC said it was “deeply saddened by the recent unfortunate incident that occurred at Shangkai village under Ukhrul district leading to the loss of two young lives”. The LNC, therefore, expressed its “deepest condolences to the bereaved families and shared their grief during this painful time”.