Koireng-led UNLF alleges India’s strategy ahead of Martyrs’ Memorial observance

Ahead of the observance of the 9th “Athoubasinggi Ningsing Numit” (Martyrs’ Memorial Day) on May 18, the Central Committee of the Koireng-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) has issued a statement paying tribute to its fallen leaders, cadres and supporters who, according to the outfit, sacrificed their lives for the “liberation struggle” of Manipur.
The outfit stated that May 18 has been observed annually since 2018 as Martyrs’ Memorial Day in remembrance of members of the UNLF and its armed wing MPA who died during the insurgency movement. It also paid homage to members of other underground organisations who lost their lives in the conflict, stating that their sacrifices continue to inspire the movement.
In the statement, the Koireng-led UNLF claimed that despite more than seven decades of insurgency in Manipur, the Government of India had failed to suppress the movement. It further alleged that New Delhi had adopted a “major strategy” aimed at ending the insurgency movement by 2029.
The organisation alleged that the ethnic violence which erupted in Manipur in 2023 was part of a larger political and military plan. It accused the Centre of attempting to alter demographic and political equations in the state through measures linked to Census and Delimitation exercises, enhancement of political representation for Kuki-Zo groups and proposals concerning Territorial Council arrangements.
The statement also alleged illegal influx from Myanmar and claimed that demographic changes were being used to reshape political representation in Manipur. It further alleged that the deployment of additional Indian Army and Central Armed Police Force personnel was intended to suppress opposition to such measures.
The outfit appealed to the people of Manipur to remain united against what it termed “India’s final strategy” and called upon the younger generation to continue what it described as the ideology of “sacrifice and dedication” for the future of Manipur.