All ten Kuki MLAs of Manipur, including two ministers in the Biren Singh cabinet, have called for a separate administration. They claim that the state of Manipur failed to protect the Chin-Kuki-Zomi tribals. The demand for a separate administration follows severe battles between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which resulted in the deaths of over 70 people.In a statement, the ten MLAs voiced concern about their communitys dangerous status when living among the Meiteis following the recent conflicts. They believe that continuing to coexist with the Meitei group puts their peoples lives at risk. The declaration was signed by BJP MLA Vunzagin Valte, who was critically injured in an attack on his vehicle on May 4 in Imphal. Valte had to be flown to Delhi for medical treatment. Other notable signatories include BJP ministers Letpao Haokip and Nemcha Kipgen, as well as Haokholet Kipgen, LM Khaute, Ngursanglur Sanate, Letzamang Haokip, Paolienlal Haokip, Kimneo Haokip Hangshing, and Chinlunthang Haokip.The desire for a separate administration arises from the idea that the Manipur state government has failed to protect the Kuki minority properly. The MLAs want a separate administration under the Indian Constitution and want to coexist peacefully with Manipur as neighbours. The Union of India makes the choice of the type of distinct administration, whether it is a separate state or a Union Territory.The Kuki MLAs intend to hold a gathering in Mizoram on May 16 in order to rally support for their demand. This gathering will bring together community leaders and members from civil society organisations from their different constituencies to mobilise and advance their cause.Image: TwitterThe aftermath of the violenceIn the meantime, despite the ongoing events, the Chief Ministers Security Advisor, Kuldiep Singh, has stated that the casualty from the conflict has grown to 71. Three more bodies were discovered from a vehicle in a ditch. Singh added that 40 percent of these casualties were directly caused by the conflicts. He further noted that efforts are being made to find and rescue three Meitei villagers who were kidnapped in Torbung Bangla, Bishnupur district. In addition, arrangements are being developed to return roughly 300 people who sought refuge in Myanmar following the violence.
