IMPHAL: In a significant turn of events, the planned mass burial of tribal victims resulting from Manipur's three-month-long ethnic clashes has been temporarily put on hold. The decision comes as tribal community representatives engage in talks with the Union Home Ministry regarding several demands related to the burial and the broader situation.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) shared that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had requested a five-day delay for the burial. In return, the government has pledged to legalize the burial site and address other concerns. The Mizoram Chief Minister also supported this request. The ITLF conveyed that they would consider the delay, provided the MHA provides a written assurance regarding their five demands. These demands include legalizing the burial site, ensuring the safety of Kuki-Zo communities by refraining from deploying certain state forces, transferring deceased bodies from Imphal to Churachandpur, expediting their political demand for separation from Manipur, and relocating tribal jail inmates for their safety.
Ginza Vaulzong, an ITLF spokesperson, emphasized that if the MHA fails to provide written assurance before the designated timeframe, the burial will proceed as planned. The spokesperson further explained that the mass burial event itself might be postponed if the assurance is received.
The Union Home Ministry issued a statement acknowledging the concern and affirmed its commitment to resolving the issue amicably within seven days. The government's appeal for communal harmony and peace underscores its dedication to finding a satisfactory resolution.
The proposed mass burial was intended to take place at S Boljang, near Haolai Khopi in Churachandpur district. Notably, around 35 bodies, some of which have been in the morgue for nearly three months, were slated for the funeral.
Anticipating a significant tribal gathering during the burial event, local law enforcement bolstered security measures in and around the area to forestall potential outbreaks of violence. Additional security forces were deployed to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.
However, the mass burial plan received criticism from certain segments of Meitei civil society groups. Organizations like the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) expressed their opposition to the mass burial, advocating instead for performing last rites within the deceased's native villages. COCOMI spokesperson Khuraijam Athouba denounced what they perceived as the politicization of the situation, cautioning against actions that might exacerbate tensions and breed long-term animosity among affected communities.
As discussions between tribal leaders and the Union Home Ministry continue, the fate of the postponed mass burial remains uncertain. The situation highlights the delicate balance between respecting cultural practices and ensuring communal harmony in the aftermath of a tragic conflict.
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