UKHRUL: The Tenyimi Peoples’ Organization (TPO) has expressed its deep concern over the prevailing tensions in certain parts of Manipur, including the Kangpokpi area, and urges all communities, particularly the Nagas and Kukis, to remain vigilant while upholding the long-standing tradition of peaceful co-existence that has bound the people together for generations.
In an appeal issued by the organization’s President, Timikha Koza, and General Secretary Kathu Rengma, the TPO emphasizes that the social and demographic realities of the region require wisdom, restraint, and mutual respect from all sides. “There are several Naga villages situated in areas where they are in the minority, just as there are Kuki villages located in Naga-dominated areas, including in parts of Nagaland. This delicate balance has been sustained over the years through understanding and respect for each other’s history, identity, and ancestral land,” it stated.
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The TPO also draws attention to the vulnerability of several historic Naga villages in Kangpokpi District, including Thangal Surung in Saikul Sub-Division – a historically significant Naga village – as well as Tumnoupokpi, Yaikongpao, Daili, Phyapou, Liyai Kongpao, Liyai Kalapahar, Thanamba, Mahika, and Tokpa. “The safety, dignity, and rightful existence of these villages must be respected by all concerned,” TPO stated.
The organization while firmly committing to peace, dialogue, and communal harmony, it cautions that it will not remain a silent spectator if any individual, organization, or group attempts to intimidate, threaten, or try forcibly to evict Naga villages from their ancestral lands. “Any such actions would not only undermine peace but would also endanger the fragile trust between communities that has been built over generations,” it said.
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The TPO then strongly appeals to all community leaders, civil society organizations, and responsible citizens to exercise leadership and ensure that miscreant elements, particularly misguided youths, are not allowed to engage in actions that could disturb the existing communal harmony. “Differences must be addressed unitedly through dialogue and mutual understanding, not through confrontation or coercion,” the further stated.
Moreover, it reiterates that peaceful co-existence remains the only sustainable path forward, and calls upon all communities to preserve peace, protect one another, and uphold the shared values of dignity, respect, and good neighborliness.