Churachandpur, Oct 26: The Kuki Inpi Manipur and Kuki Chiefs Association have strongly opposed the proposed fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border, expressing that it endangers the cultural, traditional, and historical rights of indigenous tribes. They stress that cross-border movement is essential for sustaining social, cultural, and familial bonds that have existed for generations.
In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the Kuki Inpi and Kuki Chiefs’ Association argued that the fencing would disrupt the long-standing Free Movement Regime, which is crucial for trade, cultural practices, and community interactions. They highlighted how this regime has enabled the Kuki and other indigenous communities to maintain strong cross-border ties.
The Kuki leaders also questioned the government’s choice to focus on Manipur for the fencing project while other northeastern states share borders with Myanmar, especially amid ethnic tensions in the region. They urged the government to prioritize resolving these tensions instead of erecting physical barriers that might fragment communities and restrict cultural exchange.
The leaders also called on the government to value the importance of the Free Movement Regime and engage in genuine dialogue with indigenous communities before proceeding with any border measures. It warned that actions contrary to the will of the Kuki people would be perceived as threats to their cultural identity and would be met with an appropriate response.
