Kuki-Zo Tribals Reject Peace Talks Offer from Manipur Chief Minister without Political Resolution

Lamka, Outer Manipur - In a strong statement released today, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), a conglomerate of recognized tribes in Lamka, Outer Manipur, announced its rejection of any offer of dialogue with Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The ITLF made it clear that they will not engage in talks with the state government in any form. This decision comes after Chief Minister Singh's recent meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah, where he expressed his intention to reach out to stakeholders.

However, the ITLF views this move as too little, too late. The forum emphasized that in the face of numerous innocent lives lost, extensive property damage, and the unimaginable hardships endured by the Kuki-Zo tribals, merely discussing peace without addressing the root cause through a political solution holds no significance.

The devastating statistics speak volumes about the severity of the situation. Approximately 106 tribals have lost their lives, 201 villages have been razed to the ground, over 5,000 houses have been destroyed, and 355 churches have been demolished. Furthermore, a staggering 41,425 tribals have been displaced as a result of the ongoing conflict. The Kuki-Zo community has reached a point where coexistence with the Meiteis is no longer feasible.

Accusing Chief Minister N. Biren Singh of orchestrating the ethnic violence and displaying a deep-seated animosity towards the Kuki-Zo community, the ITLF asserts that he cannot be the harbinger of peace. The forum states that both tribals and a significant portion of the Meitei community have lost faith in Singh's leadership and his government.

The ITLF has already engaged in discussions with various dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, where the Kuki-Zo tribals have articulated their demands. These demands include their political aspiration for complete separation from Manipur. The forum asserts that their political demand aligns with the stance of their ten Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and other civil society organizations (CSOs).

Having exhausted their avenues for dialogue, the ITLF emphasizes the urgent need for the Government of India to focus on finding a resolution to their political demand. They stress that a prompt resolution is crucial for establishing lasting peace in Manipur.

In addition, the ITLF urges all CSOs and tribal leaders from the Kuki-Zo community to maintain unity and abstain from participating in any form of dialogue with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and his administration. The forum warns that stringent action will be taken against anyone found to be in contact with the state government.