MLAs of Naga dominated constituencies urge Manipur CM to appoint new Tribal Affairs Minister

Guwahati: Around 10 MLAs belonging to Naga dominated constituencies have petitioned chief minister N Biren Singh to appoint new Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister in-charge to look after the affairs of tribals and hills efficiently and effectively.

In a letter the MLAs stated, “As you are aware of the difficulties faced by the innocent citizens of Manipur due to unrest happening in our state. In this hour of crisis, we would like to appeal to you to kindly look into the matter of the functioning of Tribal Affairs and Hills Department which has been rendered defunct due to absence of the Hon'ble Minister of Tribal Affairs and Hills, Government of Manipur for the last 10(ten) months. It is pertinent to point out that this Department is becoming more crucial in this hour of crisis to look after the needs and development of tribals and hills areas of the state to bring over-all peace and progress in the state. Therefore, we would like to request you to appoint a new Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister in-charge to look after the affairs of tribals and hills efficiently and effectively".

There are two ministers from the Kuki community in the council of ministers. While Letpao Haokip is Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister, Nemcha Kipgen is industry minister.


The MLAs who petitioned included S S. Olish from Chandel constituency, Ram Muivah from Ukhrul, Leishiyo Keishing from Phungyar, Khashim Vashum from Chingai, J Kumo Sha Karong, Losii Dikho from Mao,N. Kayisi fromTadubi, Awangbow Newmai from Tamei, Janghemlung Panmei from Tamenglong and Dinganglung Gangmei from Nungba.

Ten tribal MLAs, including seven belonging to the BJP, and various tribal organisations, including the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) and Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), have been demanding a separate administration (equivalent to a separate state) for the tribals since May 12.

These organisations have on several occasions have made it clear that there will be no discussion with Manipur chief N Biren Singh.