Kuki-Zo Community Holds Rallies in Manipur to Demand Separate Administration

On Saturday, the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur organized rallies across several districts demanding a separate administration and protesting against allegedly doctored audio clips claiming to be of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The Manipur government dismissed the audio tapes as fakes aimed at disrupting peace initiatives.

The Kuki-Zo community staged rallies in Manipur on Saturday, pressing for a separate administration and protesting against viral audio clips purportedly of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, which contained offensive remarks. The community demanded the creation of a union territory with a legislature similar to Puducherry.

Rallies took place at Leishang in Churachandpur, Keithelmanbi in Kangpokpi, and Moreh in Tengnoupal. In Churachandpur, protesters marched from the Anglo Kuki war gate to Peace Ground in Tuiboung, covering 6 km. Schools and businesses closed for the day despite the Commissioner urging them to remain open.

In Kangpokpi, hundreds marched from Keithelmanbi Military colony to Thomas Ground, covering 8 km. The Manipur government dismissed the audio tapes as doctored and aimed at derailing peace efforts. Chief Minister Biren Singh rejected the Kuki demand for a separate administration but showed support for a special development package for their hilly regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)