MANIPUR, India: In a recent development, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has issued a plea to his Mizoram counterpart, Zoramthanga, requesting non-interference in the internal affairs of another state.
The request comes in the aftermath of Zoramthanga’s participation in a rally held in Aizawl, where he expressed solidarity with the Kuki community amidst the ongoing ethnic clashes in the violence-hit state.
For several months, Manipur has been grappling with ethnic tensions between the Kuki and the majority of Meitei communities, leading to widespread violence and arson incidents. Tragically, over 140 people have lost their lives, and nearly 60,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes as a consequence of the crisis.
The root cause of the violence traces back to a protest march organized by the All-Tribal Students’ Union of Manipur, opposing the demand of the majority Meitei community to be included in the Scheduled Tribe category. This sparked tensions and further escalated into the current dire situation.
In light of the ongoing violence, the Mizoram government has provided shelter to around 13,000 Kuki people who have sought refuge by fleeing Manipur, as reported by NDTV.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh emphasized that the conflict in Manipur is primarily between the government and those seeking to disrupt the peaceful co-existence within the state. He clarified that the tension arose when the state government took measures against drug cartels, asserting that the Manipur government does not hold any grudge against the Kuki community residing in the state.
The appeal from Chief Minister N Biren Singh to his Mizoram counterpart serves as an earnest call for respecting the sovereignty of each state and refraining from involvement in the internal matters of another region. As the crisis continues to have far-reaching consequences, it is crucial for neighbouring states to promote dialogue and cooperation in finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing strife in Manipur. The focus should be on restoring stability and harmony within the state, ensuring the safety and well-being of all communities affected by the tragic events.
Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga takes part at a rally in support of the Kuki-Zo tribal community in Manipur pic.twitter.com/T7ETOXq9D1
— ITLFMediaCell (A) (@ITLFMedia_Cell) July 25, 2023
