Hundreds of Kuki-Zo protesters rallied in Gamgiphai, Sadar Hills Kangpokpi District, intensifying demands for a Union Territory (UT) with legislative powers under Article 239A of the Indian Constitution. Sparked by leaked audio tapes allegedly involving Manipur’s Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, the protest organized by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) displayed support for 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs advocating for the Chief Minister’s prosecution if allegations prove true.
Protesters, mainly women, held banners and chanted slogans like “Save Democracy in Meiteipur, Implement Article 239A for the Kuki-Zo” and “Save Democracy: Impose President’s Rule.” They argued that the current leadership has failed to protect their community’s rights and called for the imposition of President’s Rule under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution.
Kaiminlen Sitlhou, CoTU’s spokesperson, accused the Manipur government of ethnic persecution since May 2023, criticizing the misuse of state machinery against its citizens. He also addressed Union Home Minister Amit Shah, highlighting Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s failures, including not securing key parliamentary seats, and defying directives by allegedly using bombs against the Kuki-Zo people.
CoTU reiterated demands for a Union Territory, emphasizing separation from what they described as a biased and oppressive government under N. Biren Singh. Sitlhou affirmed that this remains the only path forward for achieving justice and security for the Kuki-Zo people.
The protest reflects escalating tensions between the Kuki-Zo community and the Manipur government, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in the region.
