The Kuki body expressed complete trust in Central Security Forces, calling them neutral and essential for maintaining stability in the conflict-hit state.
BY PC Bureau
BY PC Bureau: The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) on Tuesday strongly opposed a proposal to replace Central security forces with state forces in Manipur’s hill and foothill regions, warning that such a move could further destabilise the conflict-hit state.
In a press release issued on April 14 (Ref: 04/KIM/PR/25-8), the organisation categorically rejected the proposal, stating that the Kuki community would not accept any attempt to alter the existing security arrangement.
“The Kuki people will categorically reject any such move. The Kuki Inpi views this proposition as an attempt to project peace and stability while reinforcing the Manipur State’s control over Kuki areas, thereby perpetuating the undue oppression and subjugation of the Kuki people,” the statement said.
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It further warned that any such decision, taken amid ongoing volatility and what it described as a “loss of credibility and accountability” of the state government, could escalate tensions and trigger fresh conflict.
“Any attempt to alter the current security arrangement under these fragile circumstances will be viewed as a direct threat to the safety and security of the Kuki people,” it added.
Emphasising its faith in Central forces, KIM said the community “places its trust solely in the Central Security Forces,” which it said have ensured neutrality, stability, and protection during the ongoing crisis. It called for the current deployment to be maintained in the interest of peace and urged the state government to refrain from decisions concerning Kuki areas and their land.
The statement, signed by Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary (Information & Publicity), reflects the community’s firm position that only Central forces can ensure neutrality in the prevailing situation.
Distrust of State Forces Deepens
KIM’s opposition also reflects a deeper and longstanding distrust of the state’s security apparatus, particularly the Manipur Police, among the Kuki-Zo community.
Since the outbreak of violence in May 2023, Kuki-Zo organisations have repeatedly accused the police of bias, alleging partisan conduct and failure to protect tribal lives and property. These concerns were echoed during proceedings in the Supreme Court of India, which criticised the handling of the crisis.
The court flagged delays in investigations, described the situation as indicative of a breakdown of constitutional machinery, and expressed concern over failures in registering cases in serious incidents, further reinforcing mistrust among affected communities.
Security Debate Intensifies
Against this backdrop, KIM warned that replacing Central forces with state forces could undermine the fragile sense of security in hill areas and deepen existing fault lines.
The organisation reiterated that maintaining the status quo in security deployment is essential to prevent further escalation and ensure stability in the region.
The statement comes at a time when Manipur remains tense following months of ethnic violence, with security arrangements continuing to be a sensitive and contested issue.
