Arambai Tenggol chief Korou Nganba Khuman has said that his outfit does not view all members of the Kuki community as enemies and is committed to peaceful coexistence, while stressing that a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict in Manipur would require addressing issues related to demographic imbalance caused by illegal immigration. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a programme in Imphal, Khuman said that Kukis who have been living in Manipur should continue to stay in the state but added that illegal immigrants must be identified through mechanisms such as the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
“We do not see every Kuki as our enemy. We want to live together peacefully. However, there are serious concerns related to demographic imbalance, drugs and illegal immigration. A mechanism like the NRC with a base year is necessary to identify illegal immigrants,” he said. Khuman further stated that illegal immigration is a reality and not a misconception, and that addressing demographic imbalance, drug-related issues and illegal immigration is essential for achieving a lasting solution to the crisis. He also urged elected representatives to place the interests of the state above all other considerations.
Responding to queries about Arambai Tenggol, Khuman said the outfit would continue to exist peacefully but would mobilise whenever required. Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur has left at least 260 people dead and displaced thousands since May 2023. The state is currently under President’s Rule.
