Meitei Leepun launches campaign for removal of Kukis from ST list

Illegal immigrants cannot be granted Scheduled Tribe status and the non-indigenous cannot be given reservation. Zoramthanga of Mizoram who is claiming the Kukis of Manipur to be their brother and sisters do not have any rights there in Mizoram, as only the indigenous people of the land are given reservation benefits. This was stated by Pramot Singh, Thouburel of Meitei Leepun in a people’s meet held at SRC Ground, Khurai Puthiba Leikai demanding the exclusion of Illegal Immigrants Kukis from the Scheduled Tribe List in Manipur.
Pramot Singh, the Chief of Meitei Leepun, made a passionate appeal to various organizations, politicians, CSOs (Civil Society Organizations), Meira Paibis, and intellectuals to take a firm stand in removing the Kukis, who are non-indigenous, from the Scheduled Tribe list. He also urged for a thorough investigation into the entry of DGPs (Director Generals of Police), Secretaries, Commissioners, and other high-ranking government officials into Manipur, ensuring that only those who can prove their indigenous status before or after 1961 are allowed or otherwise arrested. He further emphasized the significance of protecting Manipur’s territorial boundaries, which he stated were defended by the sacrifices of our forefathers. He highlighted the deep-rooted love for the motherland among every Meitei, even if it meant facing the fear of losing even an inch of land in distant places like Dzuko Valley, Shirui, or Border Pillar. He drew attention to the historical context, mentioning that if they had been born during the Seven Years Devastation, we would have fought against the invaders, just as our forefathers did to safeguard Manipur’s territorial integrity for future generations.
The Chief of Meitei Leepun appealed to all to unite in order to protect and strengthen the Meitei community, thereby ensuring the preservation and well-being of Manipur as a whole.
Pramot Singh provided insights into the organization’s leadership structure and operational principles and emphasized that Meitei Leepun does not adopt the British-inspired concepts of having a President or Secretary. Instead, they work in accordance with the footsteps of forefathers. Meitei Leepun is dedicated to upholding the law and strives to revive the traditions established by our ancestors. He also highlighted the strategic placement of trained members throughout the periphery of Imphal Valley. This approach ensures that the areas on the outskirts are immediately protected in the event of an attack. He recounted how Meitei Leepun defended Meitei villages neighboring Kuki areas when the ongoing conflict emerged. The members stationed at the periphery acted as village defenders during the war, and Meitei Leepun has chosen not to disclose the exact number of casualties sustained in the conflict.
The ML supremo also clarified that Meitei Leepun has not been involved in any acts of arson or destruction within the valley areas during the ongoing war. The organization’s members have been actively engaged in guarding the periphery of Imphal Valley, diligently protecting the surrounding villages. This commitment to safeguarding the periphery areas continues to be a priority for Meitei Leepun, ensuring the safety and security of the communities residing there.
W Chinglemba, Thoubei of Meitei Leepun while speaking at the meet said, “There are only two indigenous communities in Manipur which are the Meiteis and the Nagas. We should demand to the present government to remove the ST status from the Kukis, to implement NRC and to drive them away from Manipur, as they are non-indigenous to Manipur.” The Thoubei of ML emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating that failure to act now could lead to the eventual extinction of the Meitei community. He argued that the reservations and special privileges that were originally intended for the indigenous communities are now being enjoyed by the Kukis and said that the Kukis have occupied numerous high-ranking positions in the bureaucracy and are pursuing their own agendas.
Today’s meet was organised by Meitei Leepun along with different clubs of Khurai area and was attended by Loitongbam Subon Meitei, Yumnamcha Surjit Meitei, Nandeibam Shanti, Radhamani and Muktabali, along with a large number of people.