The Union Home Ministry has delivered a significant response to Kuki civil society organizations in Manipur, firmly rejecting their demand for the creation of a separate Union Territory for the Kuki community. The ministry's communication emphasizes that current government policy does not support such territorial reorganization.
Official Communication Details
In a written response dated June 29, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) addressed the concerns raised by the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and ten other Kuki civil society groups. The ministry explicitly stated that the existing policy framework does not provide for the establishment of a Union Territory to address the demands of specific ethnic communities.
The Kuki organizations had submitted their representation seeking Union Territory status for areas predominantly inhabited by the Kuki-Zo tribal communities. This demand emerged against the backdrop of ongoing ethnic violence that has plagued Manipur since May 3, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.
Background of the Conflict
The ethnic conflict in Manipur has created deep divisions between the Meitei community, concentrated in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribes inhabiting the hill districts. The violence erupted following tensions surrounding the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status, which has been a contentious issue in the northeastern state.
According to official records, the conflict has claimed over 220 lives and displaced more than 50,000 people from their homes. The persistent violence has led to calls from various Kuki groups for separate administration or Union Territory status, arguing that their security and rights cannot be guaranteed under the current state administration.
Government's Stance and Implications
The MHA's clear rejection of the Union Territory demand represents the central government's firm position on maintaining Manipur's territorial integrity. This decision aligns with the government's consistent approach of not endorsing ethnic-based territorial divisions in northeastern states.
The ministry's response comes at a critical juncture when both communities have been engaging in protests and representations to various authorities, including the Prime Minister's Office and the Union Home Ministry. The Kuki groups had specifically sought the establishment of a Union Territory with a legislature under Article 239A of the Indian Constitution.
Despite the rejection of their primary demand, the government has emphasized its commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur through security measures and political dialogue. The ongoing efforts include deployment of central security forces, establishment of peace committees, and confidence-building measures between the conflicting communities.
The MHA's communication underscores the constitutional and policy constraints that prevent the creation of new Union Territories based on ethnic demands, while simultaneously acknowledging the need to address the genuine concerns of all communities through appropriate constitutional mechanisms.
