Manipur Government Plans Airlift of Meiteis Amid Rising Tensions in Mizoram

IMPHAL: In the aftermath of a disturbing incident that occurred on May 4 in Manipur, involving the disrobing, parading naked, and sexual assault of two tribal Kuki-Zo women by a group of men, tensions have escalated between two communities in the region. The incident, captured on video, led to widespread outrage and "anger among Mizo youths." As a result, an organisation of former militants in Mizoram, the MNF Returnees Association (PAMRA), asked Meiteis, who primarily reside in Manipur and south Assam, to leave the state for their safety.

Fearing for the security of Meiteis living in Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, the Manipur government has taken steps to ensure their safety. Plans have been put in place to airlift the Meitei community from Mizoram using special ATR flights operating between Aizawl-Imphal and Aizawl-Silchar. However, the exact commencement date of the evacuation process is yet to be confirmed.

The situation has become tense in Mizoram, prompting the Mizo Student's Union (MSU) to announce its plan to conduct a Meitei census at various educational institutions in the state. The Mizoram Police have stepped up security arrangements to safeguard the Meiteis in Aizawl, enhancing protection at key locations like Vety College, Selesih; Mizoram University, Tanhril; RIPANS, Zemabawk; and ZMC, Falkawn.

In response to the growing concerns, the Mizoram government has reassured the Meitei community of their safety, urging them not to pay heed to rumors. The State home commissioner and secretary, H. Lalengmawia, held a meeting with Meitei community leaders, providing assurances of their security.

As the situation remains volatile, some Meiteis have already opted to leave Mizoram. On Saturday, 65 Meitei individuals departed for Manipur by flight, and all tickets for the next Aizawl-Imphal flight on Monday have been booked.

The recent violence stems from long-standing demands by the Meitei community for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status in Manipur. This demand has resulted in tensions and conflicts with other tribal communities, including the Nagas and Kukis, who mostly reside in the hill districts of the region.

The Manipur government's decision to airlift Meiteis from Mizoram comes in response to rising tensions and threats to their safety following the harrowing incident in Manipur. With security measures in place and assurances from both state governments, the situation remains delicate as efforts are made to quell the unrest and ensure the protection of all communities involved.

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