News Reporter
Karbi Anglong, Assam – Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), Tuliram Ronghang, announced that 700 Kuki-Zo individuals who had sought refuge in the district following violence in Manipur have been sent back after discussions with Kuki community leaders and organizations. Speaking on Wednesday, Ronghang stated that the council facilitated their return by covering travel expenses and providing buses with security escorts.
Ronghang also mentioned that around 1,000 Kuki-Zo refugees, comprising approximately 400 families, remain sheltered in Singhasan Hills and Borjan areas. Efforts are underway to ensure their safe and voluntary return.
“We will not forcefully evict them but will facilitate their return after discussions with social and political organizations, including Kuki community representatives,” said Ronghang.
Stakeholder Engagement for Peaceful Resolution
The CEM highlighted that extensive discussions have been held with student organizations, village elders, and stakeholders from both Karbi and Kuki communities to ensure the safe and peaceful reintegration of displaced Kuki families. He emphasized that the council's priority remains maintaining harmony and addressing concerns through dialogue.
However, Ronghang clarified the council’s stance on land rights, stating, “Land allotments will only be granted to indigenous residents who have lived in Karbi Anglong since its inception or are long-standing permanent residents. Those who migrated following the violence in Manipur will not be eligible for land rights.”
The council has initiated a land document distribution program aimed at securing the rights of Karbi Anglong's indigenous population. Ronghang reiterated that this initiative would not extend to recent migrants.
Upcoming Meeting and Criticism from APHLC
A meeting scheduled for November 28 will further discuss the matter, with Ronghang expressing optimism for a mutually acceptable resolution.
Meanwhile, J.I. Kathar, president of the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC), criticized Ronghang’s remarks, calling them “irresponsible.”
“The Kukis came to Karbi Anglong seeking safety after being displaced by violence in Manipur. The BJP remains silent on Bangladeshis, Bengali and Biharis and others settling in the district but shows indifference towards the plight of the Kukis,” Kathar said during a press interaction.
Historical Context and Community Dynamics
Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong, governed under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, are home to diverse communities, including the Karbis, Kukis, Hmars, and Thadous. Historical tensions between the Karbi and Kuki communities, often linked to land disputes and political representation, have occasionally led to conflict.
As the KAAC works to address the refugee crisis, balancing the rights of indigenous residents with the needs of displaced communities remains a critical challenge. The resolution of these issues will likely shape the district's social and political landscape in the years to come.