Manipur violence: NAMTA submits Memo to PM Modi on US visit

 

NORTH AMERICAN MANIPUR TRIBAL ASSOCIATION (NAMTA)

 1302 East Collins Boulevard, Suite 111, Richardson, TX 75081

 namta.us | admin@namta.us

June 22^nd, 2023

 Shri Narendra Modi Ji

Embassy of India

2107 Massachusetts Ave NW

Washington DC 20008

Subject: Urgent Memorandum on the Plight of Kuki-Zomi 

Tribes in Manipur Dear Honorable Prime Minister,

We, the North American Manipur Tribal Association (NAMTA), write this memorandum to bring to your attention the critical situation faced by the minority Kuki-Zomi tribes in Manipur. With deep concern, we highlight the challenges they currently endure, necessitating immediate action from your government.

 

The minority Kuki-Zomi tribes in Manipur, are facing attacks from radical elements of the majority Meitei community, namely Arambai Tenggol and Meitei Leepun. Since May 3^rd 2023, over 6,100 tribal homes have been burned and looted, 350 churches set ablaze and more than 115 villages attacked in the extended Imphal valley. Over a hundred lives have been lost, some brutally tortured, immolated, or subjected to rape. Many have been severely injured, and numerous individuals remain missing. More than 35,000 tribals have been displaced, and removed from Imphal which constitutes ethnic cleansing.

Regrettably, Chief Minister Biren Singh’s government has been unable to quell the violence. The Meitei attackers impersonate security forces, brandishing weapons looted from government armories or obtained from Manipuri police. Allegedly, ground-reports say Manipur security forces have either stood idly by or even participated in the violence. These incidents have resulted in severe human rights violations, including the right to reside in one’s ancestral homeland, freedom of religion and belief, the right to life, physical integrity, freedom of movement and residence, the right to security, and the prohibition of torture and inhumane treatment.

 

Considering these grave circumstances, NAMTA respectfully requests the following from your government:

 1)     Declare President’s Rule in the state of Manipur to provide impartial support for all essential services and security to all communities – tribals and non-tribals alike.

 2)     Constitute a Justice Committee from civil society in Manipur and neutral third-party personalities well- respected by all sides to account for every victim’s loss and thereby bring about peace.

 3)     Establish a separate administration for the Kuki-Zomi tribes under provisions mentioned in the Constitution of India.

We, at NAMTA, hold unwavering trust in your commitment and ability to safeguard human rights. Respectfully,

NAMTA and Members

  Contact: admin@namta.us https://namta.us/

 

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