European Manipuri Association Expresses Concerns to Indian High Commission in UK, Submits Memorandum

The European Manipuri Association (EMA) recently issued a statement regarding the Manipur crisis. In the statement, EMA chairperson Sagolsem Biramani explained that they had submitted a memorandum to Vikram K Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to Britain. The memorandum outlined five key points addressing the Manipur crisis and its historical context. EMA emphasized the importance of addressing the unrest in Manipur and urged the High Commission of India to take action to stop the spread of disinformation by Indian-origin individuals residing abroad.

They also stressed on the prioritization of Indo-Myanmar border fencing for the internal security of Manipur. Furthermore, the EMA reported that the Minister (Coordination) in the High Commission of India, Deepak Choudhary, encouraged EMA to work towards dialogue with all communities to promote peace and harmony in Manipur. He also promised to convey the concerns of the diaspora to the authorities in Delhi. The key points outlined in the memorandum presented by EMA included a call for sincere efforts to restore law and order in Manipur without partiality, the provision of immediate rehabilitation and adequate compensation to all internally displaced people, and the prioritization of Indo-Myanmar border fencing to curb transnational terrorism, drugs, and arms trafficking.

The memorandum also addressed the need to stop deforestation, prevent the expansion of the ‘Golden Triangle’ into Manipur, and identify illegal immigrants. The ongoing clashes between the Meitei community and the Kukis in Manipur have resulted in significant casualties and internal displacement. The Meiteis seek inclusion under the Scheduled Tribes category, while the Kukis advocate for a separate administration due to discrimination and unequal resource allocation. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 220 people and internally displaced nearly 50,000 individuals.

The EMA’s efforts and the memorandum aim to address these complex and longstanding issues affecting Manipur.