Imphal -  In the backdrop of escalating ethnic tensions in Manipur, the Zomi Council Steering Committee (ZCSC), representing nine Kuki-Zomi tribes, has called for the imposition of President's Rule in the state. The ZCSC has sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention in finding a permanent solution to the ongoing strife.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, the ZCSC also requested an NIA (National Investigation Agency) probe into the root causes of the attacks on tribals, which they claim were "state-sponsored." Additionally, the ZCSC urged the re-introduction of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in all valley districts to grant the Army full control over law and order.

The ZCSC highlighted the alleged looting of more than 5000 sophisticated arms and lakhs of ammunition from state armouries, further justifying the need for re-introducing AFSPA. The committee accuses the state of perpetuating systematic injustice, institutional neglect, and discrimination against Kuki-Zomi tribals for decades. They refer to a disturbing video, which captured the stripping and parading of two women, as a manifestation of the broader conflict in Manipur.

On the other hand, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a conglomerate of civil society organizations representing the Meitei community, has urged the Centre not to engage in talks with Kuki militant groups. COCOMI claims that members of these groups are responsible for the current turmoil in the state and labels them as "foreigners." They oppose any negotiations with Kuki outfits that previously signed a Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact with the government.

The SoO pact, initially signed in 2008, involved the Centre, the Manipur government, Kuki National Organizations, and United Peoples Front. COCOMI vehemently objects to talks with these groups, asserting that they stand for the territorial integrity of the state and reject any separate administration.

The situation in Manipur remains tense and complex, with various stakeholders voicing their concerns and seeking different approaches to address the issues at hand. The demands for President's Rule and the reluctance to hold talks with certain militant groups reflect the urgency and complexity of the ongoing unrest in the region. It is essential for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards finding a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the crisis.