Delhi: Unau Tribal Womens Forum demands 'Separate Administration'

UNAU TRIBAL WOMEN’S FORUM, DELHI & NCR RALLY FOR SEPARATE ADMINISTRATION (KUKI-ZOMI-HMAR TRIBALS) IN MANIPUR 

VENUE: JANTAR MANTAR, NEW DELHI  |17 AUGUST 2023)

PRESS NOTE 

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Immediate Intervention and Peace in Manipur 

In light of the escalating and alarming situation in Manipur, the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar-Mizo tribes urgently call upon the Government of India to intervene and restore peace to the region. Since the unfortunate events of May 3, 2023, a wave of violence and ethnic cleansing, orchestrated by certain extremist factions within the Meetei/Meitei community, has devastated our communities. The situation has further worsened due to the suspected involvement of state police forces, which has left us in a state of profound distress and vulnerability. 

To date, over 197 tribal villages have been set ablaze, resulting in the destruction of more than 7,000 homes. Shockingly, 117 tribal individuals have lost their lives, and many more remain missing. Additionally, 359 churches and numerous administrative buildings have been desecrated and burned, further exacerbating the suffering of our people. The state government's inaction and its failure to protect us have left us with no choice but to make this urgent plea. 

We condemn the senseless violence perpetuated by extremist groups and militias, including Arambai Tenggol and Meitei Leepun, who have been responsible for unspeakable acts of brutality against our communities. These acts have been further compounded by the involvement of proscribed Meitei terrorist groups who continue to operate freely within the state. 

We call upon the Special Investigation Team to launch an immediate and thorough investigation into the atrocities committed against our people, holding all responsible parties accountable. The recent order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated August 7, 2023, underscores the importance of addressing these crimes promptly and effectively. 

The dire situation necessitates the deployment of additional security forces in the tribal regions, as our people's lives are in grave danger. The immediate imposition of a President’s Rule in Manipur under Article 356 is also imperative to ensure the safety and security of our communities. 

Moreover, we urge the establishment of a Separate Administration for the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar-Mizo tribes within Manipur, under the provisions of the Indian Constitution. This move is vital to fostering lasting peace between our communities and to safeguarding the future of our people. 

We emphasize that the current separation between the hills and the valley is not a choice but a result of the unfathomable violence that has forced our people to flee their homes and livelihoods. The situation is dire, and we implore the Government of India to act swiftly and decisively to restore peace, security, and justice to our land. 

For further information, please contact: 

Unau Tribal Women’s Forum 

unautribalwomenforum@gmail.com

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