CoTU conveys deep resentment against the Meitei Mobs, who set fire to the center of Imphal city

A few distances from the CM’s house in the center of Imphal City, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) conveys its deep resentment against the most recent act of terror committed by the Meitei mob. Last night at about 9:30 p.m., five houses in New Lambulane, one of Kuki-Zo’s oldest communities in Imphal, Manipur, were set on fire in what appears to be a cynical attempt by the disgruntled Meitei mob.

The owners of the incinerated houses are:

1) Khaikholam Haokip;

2) Haomang Vaiphei;

3) Lengpao Vaiphei;

4)Ronald Sitlhou; and

5) Thanglenmang Kipgen

Why the opposing mob was allowed to freely carry out such horrible acts under the command of the central paramilitary forces stationed there baffles COTU? Following the aftermath of the ethnic pogrom against the minority Kuki-Zo groups, the Central Paramilitary men have completely cordoned off the New Lambulane-Check; but, the Meitei terrorists and mobs have managed to somehow overpower them. Concerns have been raised over whether the second-largest military in the world has helped the mob carry out the arson due to their weakness being disclosed once more. The union government faces a direct threat to internal security as a result of the Meitei community’s flagrant disrespect for the central authorities.

Taking a serious view on AFSPA, the committee queries justification for its repeal in Manipur’s valley districts given the state of warfare in these areas. Since its suspension, extremist Meitei terror groups possessing sophisticated weapons have been able to operate freely, posing a threat to law and order. There are numerous reports of extortion, murder, kidnapping, and looting. In order to ensure sustainable peace, the committee thus requests that the Union Home Ministry also implement AFSPA in the valley areas.

Words cannot express the lawlessness that pervades Imphal and the occasional acts of violence and destruction committed by the majority of Meiteis on homes and properties owned by the Kuki-Zo group. The Central government’s and the state’s apathetic attitude toward protecting the lives and property of the minority group is particularly appalling at this crucial juncture.

Therefore, to implement strict preventive measures and rescue the surviving areas of Kuki-Zo villages from destruction, unlawful occupation, and theft, the committee asks for the participation of the Union Home Ministry. If pyromania and the wanton devastation of life and property in Imphal continue, the state apparatus and the Center will be held responsible.