Imphal: Amid heightened security, thousands of Kuki-Zo community members participated in peaceful rallies across Manipur on Saturday, demanding the creation of a separate Kukiland state.
The demonstrations were centered in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi, two districts predominantly inhabited by the Kuki-Zo population.
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Organized by various Kuki-Zo organizations, including the Kuki Inpi and Kuki Students’ Organizations (KSO), the rallies were fueled by widespread outrage over a leaked audio tape of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
The tape, which has not been officially verified, allegedly contains inflammatory remarks against the Kuki-Zo community.
In Kangpokpi, protesters carried banners and placards with slogans such as “Biren Singh led BJP Government ethnic cleansing against the Kuki-Zo exposed,” “Separate administration the only solution,” and “Tape of revelation.”
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In Churachandpur, demonstrators demanded justice for the Kuki-Zo community, calling for a separate state to ensure their safety and security.
The rallies marked a significant escalation in tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in Manipur.
The demand for a separate Kukiland comes amidst ongoing violence and displacement in the state.
James Kuki, a participant in the Churachandpur rally, emphasized the need for a new state to bring peace to Manipur. “For peace in Manipur, mother India has to deliver a new baby statehood called Kukiland,” he said.
The rallies highlight the growing calls for greater autonomy and self-determination among the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur. As the situation continues to evolve, the future of the state remains uncertain.