Northeast Desk, 20th February: In a recent development, the chief of Ukha-Loikhai village in Churachandpur, Manipur, has issued a stern statement denouncing any attempts to distort historical narratives concerning their land and heritage. This comes in response to a press note released by the Zomi Students Federation (ZSF) on February 15, which alleged desecration of churches and claimed ancestral rights over the Thangting hills.
The Ukha-Loikhai village chief, in a clarification press note, asserted jurisdiction over the historical THANGTING of Ukha-Loikhai Haokip Kuki village, refuting claims made by the ZSF. According to the chief, the creation of Thangting sub-division was initiated by the Government of Manipur in 2014, finalized for Kangvai, and situated within their jurisdiction. The village chief, Thenkhomang Haokip, condemned what he perceived as the distortion of century-long history and traditions, urging respect and non-interference in matters beyond history and traditions.
Responding to allegations made by the ZSF regarding desecration of churches and land ownership, the ZSF reiterated its stance on the Thangsing hills, asserting ancestral rights and exercising their constitutional right to religion. The ZSF highlighted the significance of religious symbols erected on the Thangsing hilltop and criticized the perceived inaction of authorities in preventing church burnings, emphasizing the sanctity of churches as places of worship for Christian minorities.
The Thangjing Hill, also known as the Thangching Hill, situated in the southern province of Manipur, has emerged as a focal point of contention amidst ongoing tensions and violence in the region. The hill, revered as a holy pilgrimage site in Northeast India, has become embroiled in disputes over ancestral rights and religious significance, with various groups laying claim to its land. The situation remains tense as stakeholders continue to assert their respective claims amidst calls for mediation and resolution.