Manipur CM Urges Kuki Inpi Manipur for NRC Talks

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh praised the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) for its support of NRC implementation under Supreme Court oversight. He urged KIM to engage in talks about the matter. Singh highlighted issues like illegal immigration and the need for peace as core reasons for NRC implementation, impacting the state’s socio-economic fabric.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Thursday commended the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of Kuki tribes, for its support for the NRC implementation in the state and urged the organization to hold talks on the matter.

Last week, the KIM, which is at loggerheads with the state government on various issues, said it will not oppose the implementation of the NRC if it is carried out under the supervision of the Supreme Court and in consultation with the tribal body.

''Glad to learn that Kuki Inpi Manipur recently came out with a statement accepting the demand of NRC under the monitoring of the Supreme Court and others… Come out and let's talk at our level. If you (KIM) don't want to talk with me, talk with the Centre," Singh said.

The chief minister in March said that he would send a recommendation to the Centre for implementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state to identify illegal immigrants.

Both the state and central governments suspect that people from Myanmar who entered Manipur illegally were behind the ethnic clashes between Kuki and Meitei communities in Manipur that claimed over 200 lives since May last year. Addressing a gathering at the launch of various government schemes, Singh said, "One of the core issues (behind the conflict) is related to the exercise of NRC. If it is agreed upon, why should the public continue to suffer?" He said he wants to stop deforestation, illegal immigration, and illegal poppy cultivation for the production of narcotic drugs in the northeastern state.

''Peace is necessary and for peace to come, fact and core issues must be addressed. We must also try to achieve it soon. Please don't play politics. We are also discussing how the affected people will survive and what the government can do for them for their livelihood and their education,'' Singh said.

(With inputs from agencies.)