Kuki leader moots UTs as way out

KOLKATA: Kuki leader and BJP MLA Paolienlal Haokip, who shot into the limelight after ethnic violence erupted in Manipur, said the way forward to finding a solution to the state’s racial conflict is by creating three separate Union Territories.

Haokip in an interview advocated giving “political and administrative recognition to the ethnic separation” in the State, upping the ante from earlier vaguely explained demands for a “separate administration” for Kuki areas made by fellow Kuki community leaders.

However, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and Meitei groups led by COCOMI (Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, an umbrella body of several Imphal-based organizations) have strongly voiced their opposition to any moves to “break up” the State, and analysts say the Central government, which is holding talks with Kuki groups -- Kuki National Organisation and United Peoples Front, is also against such a formulation.

“The way forward, as I see it, is for the Union government to give political and administrative recognition to the ethnic separation, where the state of Manipur is reorganised as three Union territories,” Haokip said.

Critics point out that the formulation would implicitly create separate Naga, Kuki and Meitei territories which would be difficult given the fact that there are mixed populations in many villages and districts.

This move will best ensure lasting peace, and also pave the way for each community to pursue excellence

—Paolienlal Haokip, Kuki leader and BJP MLA