IT News
Imphal, Aug 3:
Ten MLAs from Kuki-Zo dominated areas of Manipur have submitted a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging his intervention to prevent the replacement of the Assam Rifles with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in sensitive areas of the conflict-affected state.
The MLAs—Ngursanglur Sanate (BJP), Letpao Haokip (BJP), LM Khaute (BJP), Letzamang Haokip (BJP), Paolienlal Haokip (BJP), Nemcha Kipgen (BJP), Vungzagin Valte (BJP), Kimneo Haokip Hangshing (Kuki People’s Alliance), Chinlunthang (KPA), and Haokholet Kipgen (Independent)—expressed their concerns that removing the Assam Rifles and substituting them with a force less familiar with the local terrain and community dynamics could escalate violence. They emphasized that the Assam Rifles had played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and preventing further unrest in the region.
The letter was prompted by reports suggesting that two battalions of the Assam Rifles, stationed in Kangvai and Kangpokpi, might be replaced by the CRPF. The MLAs described the move as a “sinister design,” arguing that the CRPF lacks the essential experience and local knowledge that the Assam Rifles possess.
The memorandum highlighted the Assam Rifles’ reputation as a “neutral force” and underscored their deep understanding of the local population, including both Kuki-Zo tribals and Meiteis. This expertise, the MLAs argued, has been crucial in maintaining law and order and preventing further violence.
The MLAs requested that if the 9th and 22nd Battalions were to be moved, they should be replaced by other battalions of the Assam Rifles to ensure the continued unbiased presence essential for peacekeeping in the region. They called for the Prime Minister’s intervention to either withdraw or rectify the decision, emphasizing the importance of fairness and justice in addressing the situation.
