Kuki Inpi leads statewide protest march, seeks Centre's intervention in Manipur situation

Thousands of people participated in a statewide rally organised by Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) on June 19, with the main gathering held at Kangpokpi district headquarters. The rally concluded with the submission of a memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi through the Deputy Commissioner of Kangpokpi.

The procession began at Nute Kailhang and moved along National Highway-2 before reaching the Deputy Commissioner's Office. The event was organised by the Committee on Tribal Unity, Sadar Hills, in support of KIM's call for a "Rally for Justice."

In the memorandum, KIM expressed concern over the security situation in parts of Manipur and sought intervention from the Central Government regarding incidents affecting Kuki-Zo communities. The organisation alleged that several Kuki-Zo civilians had lost their lives in recent months and that a number of villages had been damaged in separate incidents.

The memorandum also raised concerns over relations between Kuki-Zo and Naga communities and called for measures to restore confidence and ensure the safety of civilians in affected areas.

As part of its submission, KIM presented a seven-point charter of demands to the Government of India. These included a judicial inquiry into the June 16 death of a resident of Kolchung village during a security operation in Henglep subdivision, investigations into incidents involving civilian casualties and damage to villages, enhanced security deployment in vulnerable areas, and greater transparency regarding ongoing investigations.

The organisation also called for a review of existing ceasefire arrangements involving armed groups, compensation and rehabilitation for affected families, and a long-term political solution for the Kuki-Zo people.

Addressing reporters, Kuki civil society representatives said the rally was intended to draw attention to the concerns of the community and seek timely action from the authorities. They appealed to both the State and Central Governments to ensure the protection of civilians, maintain law and order, and facilitate peace and stability in the region.

The memorandum urged the Government of India to take appropriate steps to address the issues raised and promote lasting peace among all communities in Manipur.

The rally witnessed participation from community leaders, civil society organisations, students, women and residents from various Kuki-Zo inhabited areas of the state.