IT News
Imphal, July 13:
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), in an open letter to Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister, has called on Chief Minister Biren Singh to refrain from spreading rumours to gain public support.
Responding to recent remarks by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh about ongoing peace talks between the Manipur government and Kuki-Zo organizations, the ITLF states that its leadership and other tribal CSOs are unaware of any such discussions. The letter urges the Chief Minister to stop spreading rumours for public support and clarifies that any meetings held have been in a personal capacity.
The letter criticizes the Chief Minister of Manipur and the Meitei people for frequently labeling the Kuki-Zo community as narco-terrorists, emphasizing that while some individuals may have engaged in poppy cultivation, the entire community should not be stigmatized.
The ITLF has raised concerns about a military camp reportedly under construction along the Churachandpur-Bishnupur (Torbung Bangla) border, urging its relocation to prevent unnecessary tension. It also condemns the actions against Kuki-Zo militias and accuses authorities of granting relative freedom to Meitei groups. The ITLF’s letter further criticizes the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for arresting individuals on terror charges.
To ensure peace, the ITLF urges the introduction of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Imphal and other valley areas. However, it also asserts that military operations alone will not bring peace to Manipur.
The letter calls for a political solution, specifically advocating for the establishment of a Union Territory with a legislature for the Kuki-Zo community under Article 239A of the Indian Constitution to ensure lasting peace and safety for the community.
