Inner Manipur’s parliamentary representative, Bimol Akoijam, has delivered a stark assessment of the state’s fragile peace, asserting that the continued impediments to citizen movement, particularly Meitei access to their revered hill sites, signify a fundamental governance failure. Akoijam specifically highlighted the restricted access to the Thangjing hills in Churachandpur and Koubru in Kangpokpi, emphasizing that these limitations transcend communal divisions, representing instead a critical infringement on basic civil liberties.
The MP’s remarks followed the recent thwarted pilgrimage of a substantial Meitei group, who, on April 14th, were forced to abandon their journey to the Thangjing hills. This decision, influenced by warnings from Kuki-Zo organizations and counsel from community leaders, occurred at Moirang in Bishnupur district, a point of heightened tension due to its proximity to the heavily fortified buffer zone. This zone, established after the eruption of ethnic conflict in May 2023, now demarcates the Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley from the Kuki-controlled highland regions.
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“Normalcy will remain unattainable until the unrestricted movement of individuals is restored and internally displaced populations can return to their residences,” Akoijam articulated, underscoring the critical nature of these freedoms. The buffer zone, a direct consequence of the violence that has resulted in over 250 fatalities and widespread displacement, continues to be a contentious barrier.
Akoijam also voiced his discontent regarding the parliamentary proceedings that led to the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur. He claimed that he and Outer Manipur MP Alfred were denied the opportunity to contribute to the parliamentary discourse. “Myself and Outer Manipur MP Alfred were present… but were not allowed to speak,” he stated. President’s Rule was enacted on February 13th, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, and the Manipur Legislative Assembly, with a term extending to 2027, remains in a state of suspended animation.