Editorial || Questions troubling every Kuki-Zo after the extension of the SoO agreement and the KZC appeal

Being a pragmatist, nothing major was expected in the initial stages of the political dialogue, but we didn’t anticipate this level of surrender with no safeguards or security in return either.

Violence is not the solution, but dialogue is. A bit of compromise from both parties involved is a prerequisite for a fruitful outcome. However, the press release issued by the Government of India (GoI) seems to indicate compromise and surrender only from the Kuki-Zo, with no corresponding guarantees of security for the future, especially not from the Meiteis.

There are several questions troubling every Kuki-Zo:

Who will take responsibility if any crimes or atrocities are committed against the Kuki-Zo from here on? Will it be the GoI, or the KZC/UPF/KNO delegates?

1. What about Arambai Tenggol and Biren and his associates? What is the GoI's stance on them?
2. What will the GoI's stance be on the integrity of Manipur if the hate ecosystem against the Kuki-Zo persists as it did in the past? And God forbid, if a situation like the one on May 3rd ever occurs again?
3. Which central paramilitary forces will secure the periphery region of Kuki and Meitei areas? Will this be dictated by Meitei public and political pressure once again?

The Kuki-Zo should not be reduced to a mere punching bag for the Meiteis. The demographic advantage of the Meiteis should not whitewash the crimes and atrocities committed by radicals and communal leaders from that community. The Government of India is obligated to protect the welfare and interests of the Kuki-Zo, just as they do for other Indians.

As a matter of security and safeguards, the GoI must provide answers to the above questions. Opening the NH without any security protection is akin to laying a landmine trap for the Kuki-Zo, especially with more than 60,000 looted arms and ammunition in the public, most of which are under the control of Arambai Tenggol.

We have the fundamental right to life, equality, and dignity. The Kuki-Zo do not deserve to be treated as second-class citizens by the Government of India.