Photo Courtesy: northeasttoday
Imphal: Kuki civil society organizations in Ukhrul district are pushing back against a planned rally by the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM). The groups, including the Kuki Students' Organization and the Kuki CSO Working Committee, issued warnings on June 4 against the proposed route along National Highway 202, which runs through areas inhabited by the Kuki community.
The organizations expressed concern that the march, scheduled to pass between Litan SareiKhong and Mahadev, could worsen the existing climate of mistrust. Tensions remain elevated in the region due to the ongoing hostage crisis involving 14 Kuki men. The Kuki Students' Organization stated that while it respects the democratic rights of others, it was concerned over the decision to traverse what it described as a sensitive region without sufficient consultation with Kuki stakeholders.
The Kuki CSO Working Committee argued that the chosen corridor is inappropriate given the fragile security situation. They warned that moving forward with the rally could be viewed as an attempt to assert political strength in vulnerable areas and might provoke local residents. Both groups emphasized that the responsibility for any untoward incidents during the march would fall on the event organizers and local government authorities.
Local leadership has advised rally participants to avoid the disputed stretches and has formally requested that ANSAM reconsider the route. The organizations have urged the student association to prioritize communal harmony and seek alternative paths to ensure public safety.
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