Northeast Desk, 15th November: Amidst ongoing ethnic turmoil in Manipur, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has declared its readiness to establish a “self-governed separate administration” in regions where the Kuki-Zo tribes predominate. Frustrated by the lack of response to their demand for a separate administration from the Manipur government over six months, the ITLF warned of proceeding with the establishment of their self-government within a couple of weeks, regardless of central recognition.
Muan Tombing, the General Secretary of the ITLF, stated, “As in a state or a Union Territory, we will set up a self-government that will look into all matters in the Kuki-Zo areas. We have to do this since our voice has not been heard.”
Simultaneously, the ITLF organized a “Mass Rally Against Atrocities on Kuki-Zo Tribals” in Churachandpur district. Tens of thousands of protesters from various locations marched to Tuibuong Peace Ground, denouncing the state government and demanding investigations into atrocities against tribals by the Meitei community. The rally aimed to protest the brutal acts against innocent Kuki-Zo civilians and the selective handling of cases by police and investigating agencies, allegedly favoring the majority Meitei community over minority tribals.