Kuki Groups Openly Advocates for Referendum, Instigates Public in Hill Districts of Manipur

Imphal: In a blatant move, the Kuki Zo leadership has openly advocated for a referendum seeking the bifurcation of Manipur, showing utter disregard for the constitutional provisions. The bizarre move to hold a referendum has raised eyebrows and also made the leaders a laughing stock.

As talks with the Center has so far failed to reach any consensus and sources have confirmed to Republic Media Network, that bifurcation of the State of Manipur is not going to happen, something that the MHA officials have already intimated to the leaders of the Kuki Zo community, they want to hold this referendum. 

It may be mentioned that Center ruled out the possibility of separate administration or Union Territory with the Legislature, a demand made by ITLF, CoTU, and other civil society groups as well as armed groups from the community.

A senior leader of the community also regarded as a think tank, denied giving any official comment on it, however, on condition of anonymity stated that it’s still too early to comment, and with the call fora referendum, they are checking the pulse of the public. 

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“We will consult with legal experts soon,” he said. When reminded that referendum is not within the legal or constitutional limits in India, he said, “I know that well, that’s why we want to discuss the matter at length with legal experts before coming out in public to make a statement on it.”

Meanwhile, the Meitei civil society organisations have demanded swift action from the Center in this regard. The CSOs have also urged the Center to ban ITLF and CoTU and declare them as terror groups for not allowing the implementation of measures undertaken by MHA in Manipur to restore peace and normalcy.

It may be mentioned that earlier this month, on March 8, protests turned violent in Kangpokpi district as they targeted security forces who were escorting a vehicle to the Hills as part of the vehicular movement between hills and valleys facilitated by the Ministry of Home Affairs.