Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with tribal leaders in Manipur’s Churachandpur district to address the ongoing violence and turmoil in the state. The leaders presented their demands, including the imposition of President’s Rule and a separate administration for tribals. Shah assured them that their demands would be considered but emphasized the need for 15 days of peace to restore normalcy and facilitate further discussions. He also promised an independent investigation into the violence by a central agency or judicial committee.
During his four-day visit to Manipur, Shah aimed to bring together the warring Kuki and Meitei communities and assess the security situation in the state. In Churachandpur, one of the heavily affected districts, Shah held closed-door meetings with civil society organizations, student bodies, women’s groups, and tribal leaders.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum spokesperson, Ginza Vualzong, expressed their commitment to maintaining peace for 15 days while defending themselves if attacked. Lal Ngaiteh, spokesperson of the Zomi Students Federation, highlighted the loss of faith in the Manipur government and emphasized the need for President’s Rule and a separate administration. Shah also engaged with intellectuals and citizens to discuss strategies for restoring normalcy.
Shah’s assurances included a CBI investigation into selected cases, direct benefit transfers for rehabilitation, relief materials, helpline numbers, and his commitment to return to Manipur for further engagement. Educationists and intellectuals raised concerns about the disruption faced by students and the future of displaced institutions. Shah assured them that he would address the issue and minimize disturbances.
The Home Minister’s visit began with a meeting with Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Cabinet members, and security officials. He arrived at the Churachandpur district headquarters, where locals formed a human chain demanding a separate administration. Shah was accompanied by Union MoS for Home Satyanand Rai, BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra, and other officials.
Kuki leaders highlighted the losses suffered since May 3 and expressed their lack of confidence in the current government. Shah informed them that the Centre had sent relief material, with a significant portion allocated for tribals.
Shah conducted an all-party meeting and a security review meeting in Imphal before concluding his visit. The discussions aimed to address the complex history of insurgency in Manipur and find a path towards reconciliation and peace.
