Imphal: A book titled “Colonial Records of the Kukis Raids in Manipur and Their Impact,” written and compiled by Yumnam Rajeshwor, was released by retired IAS officer Dr. Rajkumar Nimai at the Manipur Press Club, Imphal, on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Yumnam Rajeshwor stated that the book was published after gathering important information related to Manipur from the National Archives in New Delhi.
He mentioned that there are about 7,000 files related to Manipur at the National Archives.
Emphasizing that history cannot be altered, the author further said that the book, based on documents available at the National Archives, is not meant to challenge any community.
During the function, Dr. Oinam Daniel and Dr. Michael Samjetsabam, who reviewed the book, said that it would be helpful to researchers and younger generations in learning an important chapter of Manipur’s history, particularly regarding the Kukis.
The reviewers also observed that communal harmony could prevail if all communities understood the historical facts of Manipur.
The book is published by Keithel Express Pvt. Ltd. and compiles colonial-era records related to the Kuki raids, examining their political and social impact on Manipur during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Historically, the Kuki people migrated to Manipur in waves, primarily driven north from present-day Myanmar/Chin Hills by powerful southern tribes like the Suktes (Kamhau).
The British encouraged their settlement in Manipur’s hills for strategic reasons, which led to conflicts with existing Naga and Meitei groups over land, creating complex historical tensions regarding indigenous claims and territory.
While older Kuki groups (Old Kukis) were already present, the significant influx of “New Kukis” in the 19th century reshaped demographics, with records noting their settlement alongside Naga tribes, according to various experts.