Ten tribal legislators from the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi community in Manipur have appealed to the Indian government to establish a distinct administration for their group in light of recent violent conflicts between the Meiteis and tribal peoples.
Of the ten legislators, seven are affiliated with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while the remaining three are from the Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA) and one is an independent member.
The two KPA members and the independent MLA are also part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by the BJP.
The tribal MLAs have requested a separate administration that would provide better governance and security for their communities in the wake of the recent clashes.
The Meiteis are a majority ethnic group in Manipur, while the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi community is composed of several smaller tribal groups.
Tensions between the two groups have been escalating for some time, with reports of violence and discrimination against tribal peoples by Meitei-dominated state institutions.
The recent clashes erupted in the aftermath of a protest by Meitei students, who demanded the introduction of a bill that would reserve seats in the state’s medical colleges for indigenous students.
The tribal MLAs have argued that the creation of a separate administration for their community is necessary to address these longstanding grievances and ensure that their rights and interests are protected.
They have also suggested that the proposed administration should be given greater autonomy and control over resources in the region.
However, some observers have criticized the demands of the tribal MLAs, arguing that the creation of a separate administration could exacerbate existing tensions between different ethnic groups in the state.
They have also expressed concern that such a move could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to similar demands by other communities across India.
The Indian government has not yet responded to the appeals of the tribal MLAs, and it remains to be seen whether their demands will be met.
In the meantime, tensions between different ethnic groups in Manipur continue to simmer, highlighting the need for greater dialogue and understanding between communities to ensure a peaceful and inclusive future for all residents of the state.
