Delhi, June 12: Kuki MLAs from Manipur are set to hold meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during which they are expected to raise their demand for a separate administration for Kuki-dominated areas in the state.
This comes after 10 tribal MLAs, representing the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi group, had earlier written a letter to Shah expressing the same demand.
The Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, has previously rejected the demand, asserting that there is no threat to the integrity of Manipur. However, Kuki MLA Haokip, who is leading the delegation to Delhi, argues that a separate administration for the hill districts, inhabited by the Kuki community, is essential for achieving a lasting solution to the ethnic strife in the region.
“We may decide to demand a separate state, Union Territory, or a part of a ‘Greater Mizoram’,” stated the BJP MLA.
He further mentioned that if all 10 Kuki MLAs, seven from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the remaining from National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, reach a consensus during the Delhi meeting, they would seek an appointment with Prime Minister Modi. However, Home Minister Amit Shah has already ruled out the possibility of dividing the Manipur administration.
In fact, recently, Naga MLAs representing the hill districts of Manipur met Shah to express their objections to the demand raised by their Kuki counterparts.
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Manipur’s population consists of approximately 53% Meiteis, who primarily reside in the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis, the two major tribal groups, account for around 40% of the population and are scattered across the hill districts.
The demand for a separate administration for Kuki-dominated areas reflects the complex ethnic dynamics and aspirations within Manipur. The Kuki community believes that having a separate administrative setup would better represent their interests and provide them with the autonomy they seek. However, the response from the central and state governments remains cautious, emphasizing the need to maintain the integrity and unity of Manipur.
As the Kuki MLAs prepare to meet with the Prime Minister and Home Minister, their discussions and demands will shed light on the ongoing challenges and aspirations of different ethnic communities in Manipur. The outcome of these meetings and the subsequent actions taken by the government will significantly impact the future trajectory of the state and its quest for inclusive governance and harmonious coexistence.
