Songpi: The Kuki Human Rights Council (KHRC) has extended its full and unequivocal support to the Tengnoupal Kuki Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in their opposition to the proposed construction of the 11th Indian Reserved Battalion (IRB) at Saivom Kuki Village, Tengnoupal District.
In a press statement issued today vide Ref. No.: KHRC/PR-08/2026, the Council stated that tenders have been floated for construction of the battalion at Saivom without any consultation or consent from the Village Authority, Village Chief and the people of Tengnoupal.
Tengnoupal CSOs Opposition:
It may be recalled that Civil society organisations of Tengnoupal district opposed the proposed tendering and construction of the 11th IRB at Saivom village, alleging that the process is being undertaken without meaningful consultation with the local elected representative, including the concerned MLA, and civil society organisations.
In a press release issued on 25th August, jointly by Kuki Chief Association, Molnoi Welfare Council, Hill Tribal Council, Kuki Women Union & Human Rights, and Kuki Students Organisation, the organisations said the establishment of a major security installation would have significant implications for the local community, land, environment, administration and development of the area.
They argued that no new state force posts should be established at Saivom or Lokchan/Tuipi villages until peace and normalcy are restored in the district and demanded that the tendering process be put on hold, with transparency and due consultation.
KHRC’s Stand – Endorsing the same, KHRC stated:
- No Consent, No Construction – Respect Tribal Land and Rights
Saivom is ancestral Kuki tribal land protected under Article 371C. Any attempt to acquire or build upon it without the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) is a violation of customary land rights. KHRC demands immediate stop to all activities and withdrawal of tender.
- Conflict Far From Over – Need Political Solution, Not Militarization
KHRC reminded the Government of India that the ethnic conflict that erupted on 3rd May, 2023 remains unresolved. Thousands of Kuki people continue to live in displacement, villages remain in ruins, and justice eludes. The move to establish IRB battalion in the heart of homeland is provocative and unwarranted. What Manipur needs today is a political solution, not further militarization of Kuki areas.
KHRC demanded immediate cancellation of the tender and affirmed firm solidarity with people of Tengnoupal and Saivom Village in defence of land, rights and dignity.
Copies marked to Prime Minister of India, Union Home Minister and Governor of Manipur.
