Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The United Committee Manipur (UCM) issued a reminder to the Kuki Inpi Manipur and the Zomi Chiefs Association regarding the territorial integrity of the state.
UCM reiterated its position in response to statements from Kuki Inpi Manipur and the Zomi Chiefs Association that appear to advocate for separate administration amidst ongoing conflicts in the state. The UCM condemned such calls, labeling them as harmful to the state’s unity. The organization pointed out that Manipur has already acknowledged the influx of immigrants from Myanmar and has taken steps to deport many of them.
The UCM expressed disappointment with the Kuki Inpi’s stance, which it sees as fueling divisions between communities in Manipur.
While the UCM respects the dignity and integrity of all the 34 Scheduled Tribes recognized in the Indian Constitution, it urged Kuki Inpi to exercise caution and maturity when making public statements, especially in such a volatile situation.
UCM addressed an open letter from the Zomi Chiefs Association that questioned its stance. The UCM clarified that, historically, Manipur has no record of recognizing the Zomi community as a distinct entity.
The United Committee Manipur (UCM) emphasized that the state has always fostered harmonious relations between the hill and valley communities.
UCM reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the dignity of all recognized tribes but made it clear that it would not tolerate any efforts to fracture Manipur’s territorial integrity or internal security.
The UCM also criticized inflammatory remarks circulating on social media, warning that such statements could provoke further unrest in an already tense situation. It reiterated that the committee stands firmly against any form of ethnic cleansing, a concept it views as contrary to the values of peace and coexistence that the UCM upholds.
Moreover, UCM addressed concerns regarding the influx of illegal immigrants through porous borders, particularly in areas predominantly occupied by the Zomi community. It urged the government to take immediate steps to fence the international border to secure the state from further infiltration.
The UCM called upon all indigenous tribes, including Kuki Inpi Manipur and the Zomi Chiefs Association, to support the Indian government’s efforts to safeguard the borders from cross border infiltration and terrorism.
