It was on this day, May 3, 2023, when the Vice-President of India was happily landing in Imphal; however, the visit was sabotaged by a violent protest rally that broke out on the streets of Churachandpur with armed men. The rally was allegedly designed in advance as part of a hidden agenda to pave the way for “Zaelenga’m.”
Now, the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) has strongly condemned the rally organized by the All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM) in Churachandpur on May 3, calling it a hidden agenda to destabilize Manipur and push for a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo community.
In a press release issued today, AMUCO accused ATSUM of exploiting a High Court directive concerning the inclusion of Meitei in the Scheduled Tribe list as a pretext to organize a protest rally. The organization claims this rally was not only unlawful but also aimed at furthering the demand for a Kuki-Zo separate administration, which AMUCO sees as a threat to Manipur’s territorial integrity.
AMUCO alleged that the event, held in defiance of state government orders, involved militant elements and showed blatant disregard for the law. They emphasized that the rally was conducted without proper permissions, despite security concerns and multiple warnings from the state government.
According to AMUCO, the rally was strategically planned to coincide with the observance of “Separation Day” by Kuki-Zo groups, a symbolic event that reflects their desire to divide the state. AMUCO also expressed disappointment over the use of arms and anti-state rhetoric during the rally and called out what it perceives as double standards by the Indian government, particularly the silence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the matter.
The press release also questioned the impartiality of the Governor of Manipur, citing his recent presence in Kuki-Zo dominated areas and suggesting that his actions may embolden separatist sentiments.
AMUCO reaffirmed its commitment to the unity and integrity of Manipur, urging all communities to stand against what it called a dangerous and divisive political maneuver. It warned against the long-term consequences of appeasing militant and separatist demands and reiterated its stance for peace, justice, and development within a unified Manipur.
