IT News
Imphal, Sept 12:
The Aimol Tribe Union, Manipur, has condemned the unauthorized and inappropriate use of its name and identity. In an official statement, the union expressed serious concern over the issue and announced that strict action would be taken against those responsible. It clarified that a press release (PR) issued on September 11, 2024, in its name was fake, asserting that no such PR had been released by the union.
The union specifically identified Rt. Akhel of Tuikhang Village, who allegedly claims to be the self-styled president of the Aimol Tribe Union. The union refuted his claims, stating that the Aimol people had never seen or known him, except in print media. It was also revealed that Akhel served in the Kuki Inpi Manipur from 2017 to 2019 as Vice President of External Affairs and currently holds the position of Vice President in the same organization for the 2023-2025 term.
The union raised concerns over Akhel’s alleged connections with Kuki militants and accused him of misleading valley-based civil society organizations by pretending to work for Manipur’s integrity while secretly aiding militants. This, the union claimed, has resulted in the loss of lives among valley residents.
Since 2015, Akhel has been boycotted by the chiefs of all Aimol villages after an investigation found him guilty of representing himself as a Kuki tribe member at militant events. He has been barred from entering Aimol villages, and his family reportedly relocated to Churachandpur following the violence in May 2023.
The union reiterated its commitment to protecting the Aimol tribe’s identity, warning against further misuse of its name and promising action against any attempts to tarnish the tribe’s reputation.
The statement was issued by the Department of Information & Publicity, Aimol Tribe Union, Manipur.