Guwahati, June 20: With the ongoing crisis in Manipur, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), the apex body of Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, has called for a non-violent demonstration on June 24, 2024 to press for their demand for a separate Union Territory. It has also expressed its opposition to the upcoming Autonomous District Council (ADC) elections in the state.

Spokesperson for the ITLF, Ginza Vualzong, said the demonstration is to press the Centre for their demand for establishment of a Union Territory under Article 239A for the Kuki-Zo people of Manipur.

Vualzong further stated that no Autonomous District Council (ADC) elections should be held. He criticised the Manipur government’s announcement of ADC elections, describing it as a tactic to create divisions among the Kuki-Zo tribals. “We have demanded separation from Manipur, and so far, there has been no settlement to our political demands. Therefore, the people are requested not to participate in the ADC elections,” he said.

Regarding the Free Movement Regime (FMR), Vualzong highlighted that the ITLF had written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to reverse the decision to remove the FMR along the India-Myanmar border. “The ITLF strongly advises against participating in any FMR-related activity by all government departments, including the forest, PWD, Horticulture, and SDOs. In case someone is discovered taking part in any FMR activities, they will be held accountable for any unfortunate eventualities,” he warned.

He emphasised that the tribe residing on both sides of the international borders is likely to be adversely affected by the FMR and border fencing, which could disrupt long standing family customs and traditions.

The ITLF also demanded the establishment of a Buffer Zone for Jiribam from the Ministry of Home Affairs, fearing possible violence by the Meitei community.

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