In the wake of three months of ethnic violence in Manipur, a fervent request from Kuki MLAs has spotlighted the need for distinct administrative officials in the Kuki-dominated hill areas of the northeastern state. The call, backed by ten Kuki MLAs, including seven from the BJP, was formally presented in a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This plea seeks the establishment of positions equivalent to Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) specifically for five hill districts in Manipur – Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Chandel, Tengnoupal, and Pherzawl. The Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, responding to the call, affirmed that freedom of speech is a democratic right and must be respected by all.
The backdrop to this request is the ongoing ethnic tension that has gripped the state, causing turmoil and destruction. The ethnic clashes that unfolded on May 3 were triggered by a ‘Tribal Solidarity March,’ which was organized to protest the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis, constituting approximately 53% of Manipur’s population, largely reside in the Imphal Valley. In contrast, the tribal communities – Nagas and Kukis – make up slightly over 40% of the population and predominantly inhabit the hill districts.
The memorandum submitted by the Kuki MLAs highlights the challenges faced by officers from the Kuki-Zo tribes, encompassing IAS, MCS, IPS, and MPS officers, in carrying out their responsibilities effectively. They argue that the distinct needs and dynamics of the Kuki-dominated areas necessitate specialized administrative leadership. This plea aims to ensure efficient governance and a responsive approach to the unique concerns of these regions.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh, speaking on the matter during a program commemorating Sadbhavna Diwas, emphasized the fundamental democratic principle of freedom of expression. He underlined that in a democracy, every individual has the right to voice their opinions and concerns. However, despite several MLAs being present at the event, no one commented on the issue to the media.
The Kuki MLAs have not only urged for distinct administrative officials but have also requested financial support from the Prime Minister’s relief fund. They seek ₹500 crore to aid the rehabilitation of the Kuki community members who have suffered losses in terms of both homes and livelihoods due to the prolonged ethnic tensions in the state.
Earlier, in a separate communication to PM Modi, the ten MLAs had urged for the establishment of a separate administrative structure for the tribal areas within Manipur. Their intention is to create a framework that can better address the unique cultural, social, and developmental needs of these regions.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in his Independence Day speech, highlighted the unfortunate consequences of misunderstandings, vested interests, and foreign influences that have disrupted the peace and progress of Manipur. He implored all parties involved to halt the violence and work towards restoring the state’s trajectory of growth and prosperity.
The ongoing unrest has not only led to the loss of lives and properties but has also forced many residents into relief camps. The Chief Minister expressed his deep concern over the situation and underscored the importance of ceasing violence to regain the rapid progress that Manipur had experienced in the past.
The demand for separate administrative officials in the Kuki-dominated hill areas of Manipur is a manifestation of the complexities that arise when diverse communities coexist within a state. While democratic principles encourage the expression of diverse viewpoints, the challenge lies in finding a balance that accommodates the unique needs of each community while fostering unity and progress. As Manipur strives to overcome its current challenges, the role of equitable administration becomes a crucial factor in steering the state towards a harmonious and prosperous future.
News Mania Desk / Agnibeena Ghosh 25th August 2023
