GUWAHATI, Nov 28: Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Chief Executive Member (CEM) Tuliram Ronghang’s recent claim that 1,000 Kuki community members have migrated from Manipur to Karbi Anglong due to ongoing ethnic violence has drawn sharp criticism from Kuki organizations. Ronghang also proposed a meeting to discuss the relocation of these individuals, suggesting a possible solution through deportation of illegal migrants.

In a press briefing, Kuki Inpi Assam (KIA) and Kuki Students Organization (KSO) refuted the CEM’s statement, calling his statements unfounded, misleading, and potentially inflammatory. The organizations argued that Ronghang’s remarks were baseless and could fuel ethnic tensions between communities. They criticized the contradictions in his statements, particularly regarding the deportation of the same migrants he earlier claimed had already been sent back to Manipur.

The Kuki organizations further emphasized that migration of Kuki people to Karbi Anglong was highly unlikely, given the ongoing violence in Manipur, where community leaders have actively discouraged abandonment of villages. They warned that such statements could undermine peace efforts and sow division, urging political leaders to exercise caution in their remarks.

Despite these provocations, the Kuki organizations reaffirmed their commitment to preserving peace and unity in Assam. They emphasized the need for people of all communities—regardless of tribe, caste, or religion—to reject false narratives and baseless allegations. They called for a collective effort to uphold values of truth, peace, and harmony, stressing that these values are essential for maintaining stability and unity in the region.

Following the controversy, Ronghang shared a post on Facebook about a meeting held in his official bungalow in Diphu, Karbi Anglong on Thursday. “I welcomed the SGBs, GBs, Kuki Students Organization (KSO), leading members of the Kuki community, and all those present for the discussion. The meeting, focused on concerns regarding illegal settlements of some migrants from Manipur in Karbi Anglong. While we understand the challenges arising from the situation in Manipur, the meeting stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability within our region,” the post stated.

Ronghang outlined several resolutions aimed at maintaining peace in the region. These included the formation of a task force to survey and identify illegal migrants in Kuki-dominated areas, comprising members from local leaders, ARO of Circle, Chairman, member Secretary, officials, and Kuki Students Organizations (KSO), and Karbi Students Association (KSA), as well as a decision to deport any illegal migrants to their places of origin.

Ronghang stressed that the goal of these actions was to ensure peace and harmony among all communities in Karbi Anglong, and he expressed hope that the Manipur government would assist in the safe return of its citizens. He also called on the citizens of Karbi Anglong to remain united and committed to preserving the peaceful coexistence of all communities, regardless of their backgrounds.