The Zomi Council, representing the tribal interests in Churachandpur district, has formally requested the Indian government to hasten the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry regarding the alleged assault that led to the death of BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte. Valte, who succumbed to his illness on February 21 in Gurugram, had been attacked by a mob in May 2023 amidst the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur. In a memorandum submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Council expressed its discontent with the government’s handling of the situation, perceiving significant delays as a failure to deliver justice to Valte and raise concerns over accountability.
Highlighting Article 355 of the Indian Constitution, which mandates the Centre to protect states from internal disruptions and to uphold constitutional governance, the Zomi Council reiterated its expectation for a swift and unbiased resolution from the CBI. It called for this investigation to be conducted with urgency to ensure that all perpetrators of the assault are brought to justice.
Moreover, the Zomi Council urged the Centre to engage in a structured dialogue aimed at recognizing and addressing the political aspirations of the Zo tribes. It demanded substantive constitutional and administrative reforms to secure genuine political autonomy and long-term security for the community, emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard their interests.
