Imphal, Jan 11: Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol chief Korou Nganba Khuman on January 10 said he does not view all Kukis as enemies and emphasised the need for peaceful coexistence in Manipur, while asserting that any lasting resolution to the ongoing ethnic conflict must address concerns over demographic imbalance caused by illegal immigration.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a programme in Imphal, Khuman said Kukis who have been living in Manipur should continue to stay, but illegal immigrants must be identified through an appropriate mechanism such as the National Register of Citizens (NRC). He said a base year should be fixed to clearly identify those who have entered the state illegally.
“We don’t see every Kuki as our enemy. We want to live and coexist peacefully. However, there are issues related to demographic imbalance, drugs and illegal immigration,” he said, adding that illegal immigration is a “known fact” and not a matter of speculation.
Khuman maintained that issues such as demographic change, drug trafficking and illegal immigration must be addressed in a structured manner to ensure a durable solution to the conflict. He also urged political leaders and elected representatives to prioritise the interests of the state above all other considerations.
Commenting on the role of Arambai Tenggol, Khuman said the organisation remains committed to peace but would act if the situation demands. “We are always prepared and will continue to exist in peace. But we will come out whenever required,” he said.
Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May 2023, with at least 260 people killed and thousands displaced. The state is currently under President’s Rule.
