Unanswered Questions and Blame in Kuki-Zo Hills

In a sombre turn of events on December 4, 2023, the Tengnoupal district witnessed the untimely demise of 13 Meiteis, sparking a flurry of questions on social media platforms. The Meitei media, quick to respond, raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding their deaths, speculating on whether it was a gunfight or a deliberate act of violence. The involvement of SoO groups and the origin of the weapons used were also questioned, leaving the community in a state of confusion and grief, and at the same time leading them to hate the Kuki community more than before.

As always, the blame was swiftly cast upon the Kukis, prompting the community to question the government’s role in protecting Meiteis and demanding accountability for the alleged attacks. Even political parties expressed their condolences, further intensifying the public outcry.

Upon closer examination of photographs of the deceased, the identities of the 13 Meiteis became apparent. A viral screenshot of a Facebook post suggested their involvement in a mission to attack Moreh, while another claimed they were leaving Arambai Tenggol to join the banned terror outfit PLA. Social media users identified them as participants in a staged surrender ceremony following a peace talk deal between UNLF (Pambei) and the Government of India.

The location of their demise in Kuki-Zo hills raises significant questions. Why were they in an area where Meiteis had no presence after their genocidal campaign against the Kuki-Zo since May 3? Why were the newly surrendered cadres allowed to venture into the hills despite ongoing campaigns of allegations against Kuki-Zo SoO groups not adhering to their designated camps? The rapidity with which the Meiteis ventured into Kuki-Zo territory, merely a week after the peace deal, added another layer of complexity to the unfolding tragedy.

Critics argue that the responsibility for the unfortunate fate of these 13 Meiteis lies solely with the Biren Singh led Meitei government. They assert that encouraging these individuals to participate in a staged surrender ceremony, seemingly for political gain, was a misguided move. While the assurances given to these cadres remain unknown, their eagerness to embark on a perilous mission to attack Moreh cannot be ignored.

In this unfolding narrative, blame is not to be placed on the inhabitants of the Kuki-Zo hills, but rather on those who influenced and allowed these cadres to undertake a mission that ultimately proved fatal. The blood of the 13 Meitei armed cadres stains the hands of those who, in pursuit of political objectives, steered them towards a perilous and tragic end.