Imphal, July 4: The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has expressed strong opposition to the Manipur state government and the Unified Security Command’s recent decision to demolish bunkers that are deemed “illegal.” The organisation argued that these bunkers are crucial for safeguarding Kuki-Zo tribal villages against raids.

In the inaugural meeting of the Unified Security Command, presided over by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, it was decided on Monday that all bunkers constructed by militants and troublemakers across the state would be dismantled.

Following the meeting, the Chief Minister stated on Monday evening that the Army would lead the operation to destroy the illegal bunkers, with support from other central paramilitary forces.

ITLF spokesperson, Ginza Vualzong, expressed concerns over the Chief Minister’s decision, asserting that the removal of bunkers would render Kuki-Zo tribal villages more vulnerable to attacks from radical Meitei gunmen and mobs.

“Despite the presence of a significant number of security forces and the establishment of military buffer zones, tribal villages are subjected to daily attacks, resulting in deaths and the destruction of homes and property,” Vualzong said.

The ITLF leader further contended that Meitei settlements do not require bunkers as tribal communities do not target them. However, for the tribals, bunkers are an integral part of their defense against relentless raids.

“Furthermore, the tribals cannot trust a Chief Minister who refers to his fellow citizens as ‘illegal immigrants’ and openly supports one community despite holding a position of state administration,” Vualzong added.

The tribal leader cited the Chief Minister’s biassed behaviour during his recent visit to the Sagang area, where Langja village was attacked by armed Meitei groups. Vualzong claimed that the Chief Minister only visited and offered condolences to the Meiteis, while completely ignoring the burning of 30 tribal houses and the brutal killing and beheading of an unarmed tribal youth.

“Two months of bloodshed are sufficient for all stakeholders to realise that superficial measures alone cannot bring the violence under control. The central government must demonstrate impartiality by implementing President’s Rule in the state,” stated the tribal organisation.

Meanwhile, the Army, along with paramilitary forces and the Manipur police, have been demolishing approximately 20 bunkers established by militants and troublemakers across various districts since last month.

Also read: Cattle lifter lynched in Garo village

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