Manipur Government Plans Airlift of Meiteis from Mizoram Amidst Rising Tensions with Kukis

| 23 July 2023

In response to escalating tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Mizoram, the Manipur government has initiated plans to airlift Meiteis from Aizawl to ensure their safety. This decision comes after an organization of former militants in Mizoram, the Peace Accord MNF Returnees Association (PAMRA), urged the Meiteis to return to their home state for their own protection.

The call for evacuation follows a distressing incident that occurred on May 4, where a video surfaced showing two women from the Kuki-Zo tribe being disrobed, paraded naked, and sexually assaulted by a group of men. This horrifying act sparked outrage among Mizo youths, leading to a surge in tensions between the Meiteis and Kukis in the region.

To safeguard the Meitei community living in Aizawl, the Mizoram Police have enhanced security arrangements at various locations, including Vety College in Selesih, Mizoram University in Tanhril, RIPANS in Zemabawk, and ZMC in Falkawn. The police are determined to prevent any potential developments of tension that could endanger the safety of Meiteis residing in Aizawl.

Although the Manipur government has taken the decision to airlift the Meiteis, specific details about the commencement of the evacuation process have not been disclosed yet. Presently, a significant number of Meiteis, primarily from Manipur and south Assam, are residing in Mizoram.

Reacting to the PAMRA's statement, the Mizo Student's Union (MSU) has taken a proactive approach by announcing its intention to conduct a Meitei census at various educational institutions across Mizoram. This move aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Meitei population in the state and foster better communication and integration.

In light of the escalating tensions, the Mizoram government has sought to assure the Meitei community of their safety. State home commissioner and secretary H. Lalengmawia held a meeting with Meitei community leaders, reaffirming the government's commitment to their security and urging them not to heed to rumors.

Amidst the situation, the civil aviation authorities in the state have confirmed that 65 Meitei individuals have already left for Manipur via flight on Saturday. Additionally, all tickets for the next flight on the Aizawl-Imphal route, scheduled for Monday, have been booked.

The root cause of the violence traces back to May 3, when the 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organized in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, making up approximately 53 percent of Manipur's population, primarily reside in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, account for 40 percent and predominantly inhabit the hill districts.

The situation remains highly sensitive, with the potential for further escalation if not managed carefully. The Manipur government's decision to airlift Meiteis from Mizoram is seen as a crucial step to safeguard the lives and well-being of this community. It is essential for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and find peaceful solutions to address the underlying issues contributing to the unrest. The preservation of communal harmony and the protection of human rights should remain paramount during these trying times.