Kuki Inpi Manipur says MLA Khemchand’s visit appear to be political theatrics aimed at projecting a false narrative of normalcy

The Kuki Inpi Manipur has stated that the recent visit of MLA Khemchand to the relief camp at Litan Sareikhong appear to be political theatrics aimed at projecting a false narrative of “normalcy” and the possibility of forming a so-called popular government in the state.

KIM stated that, “The visit seem designed to impress central leaders by creating the illusion that a Meitei MLA can now freely visit Kuki areas in the hills, that tensions have eased, and that peace has returned. At the same time, MLA Khemchand seems eager to position himself within the Meitei community as a bold political figure”.

Reacting to the recent action of the MLA, KIM issued a release on wednesday stating that Khemchand’s recent visit to the relief camp at Litan Sareikhong in the current climate of ethnic conflict between the two communities, accompanied by a heavy security presence, raises serious questions about the sincerity and purpose of such gestures.

For the Kuki people, who endured immense suffering and loss, the visit feels neither reassuring nor welcome, especially when hostilities remain unresolved and justice remains elusive, stated the release.

Following his stopover at Litan Sareikhong, Khemchand travelled to Grihang village. Yet the purpose of this visit remains unexplained, with no clarity regarding the objectives of the trip or the discussions that took place, KIM stated.

“Given the prevailing political circumstances, it is difficult to dismiss the growing concern that his actions may be aimed at fomenting tensions among the hill tribes, an approach consistent with the long-observed divide-and-rule tactics employed by the majority community” says KIM.

The Kuki body stated that it is deeply distasteful to see Khemchand cry for peace today when he did nothing and remained silent during the course of the conflict and added that such displays feel like nothing more than shedding crocodile tears.

The release stated that the central government must prioritize justice over political gimmicks. Instead of attempting to install a “popular government” that the Kuki people do not accept under the present circumstances, the government must focus on delivering meaningful political and security guarantees.

A "Separate Administration for the Kuki–Zo people" remains the most appropriate and "just response" that the central government can give to a community that has suffered genocidal acts and persecution, stated the release