New Delhi (Agency): The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) of Manipur has expressed dissatisfaction with Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent statements about the ongoing ethnic tension in the northeastern state of Manipur.
The ITLF, representing various recognized tribal communities in Manipur, highlighted the severe impact of the ethnic conflict in the region. Over the past three months, violence has resulted in the tragic deaths of more than 130 Kuki-Zo tribal members. Additionally, approximately 41,425 tribal civilians have been displaced. This conflict has further deepened the divide between the Meiteis and the tribals.
Responding to the Home Minister’s explanation that the strife began due to refugees from Myanmar entering Manipur, the ITLF stated, “Mizoram has welcomed more than 40,000 refugees from Myanmar and displaced people from Manipur, and it is still the most peaceful state in India.”
In their statement, ITLF pointed out multiple factors contributing to the rising tension. They cited the “Scheduled Tribe demand by the majority community,” governmental decisions regarding forest reserves that could take away lands from tribals, and negative portrayals of tribals by certain Meitei individuals. The ITLF believes these factors contributed to the deteriorating trust between Meiteis and tribals, leading to the violent clashes.
In clear words, the group emphasized, “Accusing refugees, who are some of the most deprived and helpless sections in any community, of starting a conflict at this scale is just ‘plain wrong’.” They also expressed shock over the Home Minister’s support for Manipur’s Chief Minister, Biren Singh. According to ITLF, Singh is “the chief architect of the violence.”
The ITLF stressed that the current state leadership has failed its people. Despite the persistent violence, they feel that necessary actions haven’t been taken against the Chief Minister. “Many of his own ministers have made submissions to the central government saying law and order has completely collapsed in the state,” the ITLF claimed. They appealed to the Home Minister to prioritize the well-being of Manipur’s citizens over political affiliations.
It is noteworthy that a day prior, an ITLF delegation had met Home Minister Shah. He had assured them that there would be a stronger and more effective deployment of central security forces in the troubled areas of the state.
However, during a Lok Sabha discussion, Minister Shah attributed the start of the problems in Manipur to the arrival of Kuki refugees from Myanmar. He explained that these refugees began settling in Manipur’s forests after Myanmar’s military began operations against militants in 2021. This raised local concerns about potential demographic changes, added Shah.
