The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has issued a warning over reports that a Meitei cyclist, Malem Thongam, is planning to visit Churachandpur on March 17, cautioning that such a move would violate the existing buffer zone between Meitei and Kuki-Zo inhabited areas.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the organisation said any attempt to cross the buffer zone currently in place would be viewed as a direct breach and could trigger tensions. The forum stated that there is presently no agreement or settlement between the Meitei community and the Kuki-Zo people, and therefore urged the cyclist to respect the prevailing restrictions and avoid entering Kuki-Zo areas.
According to the ITLF, Malem Thongam is free to continue his cycling activities within the Meitei-inhabited regions spanning around 650 square miles but should refrain from entering Kuki-Zo territories. The organisation warned that if the cyclist ignores the advice and proceeds toward Churachandpur, any untoward incident that occurs would be a consequence of his own actions.The forum also called on its Women Wing and volunteers to remain alert and vigilant amid the reported development.
