IT News
Imphal, Nov 21:
The Federation of Civil Society Organisations, Manipur (FOCS), has stated that remarks by senior Congress leader and former Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram have triggered significant controversy in the state. According to FOCS, Chidambaram, using his official account on the microblogging platform X, suggested that “genuine regional autonomy must be considered to enable Kuki-Zo and Naga groups to coexist peacefully within one state.”
This statement has reportedly drawn widespread criticism, with many in Manipur viewing it as provocative and irresponsible, particularly given the sensitive and complex nature of the state’s socio-political dynamics. Observers are assessing the implications of his remarks against the backdrop of ongoing unrest and heightened ethnic and communal tensions in the region.
Critics have also revisited Chidambaram’s policies during his tenure in the 2000s, alleging that they adversely impacted Manipur’s territorial integrity and unity. Meanwhile, the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has distanced itself from his comments, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the state’s unity and stability.
One contentious aspect of Chidambaram’s statement is the suggestion of statehood or regional autonomy for ethnic groups, especially in areas dominated by Chin-Kuki-Zo communities. Analysts argue that such proposals could undermine Manipur’s sovereignty, given the long-standing concerns about illegal immigration from Myanmar through the state’s porous borders.
FOCS highlighted that the remarks have sparked condemnation across Manipur, with civil society organizations and residents calling for responsible leadership to address these issues. They emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and solutions that uphold the state’s unity while respecting its diverse communities. The controversy underscores the importance of addressing Manipur’s challenges with sensitivity and a focus on long-term harmony.
