Kuki-Zo MLAs to boycott any formation of Manipur govt

All 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs in Manipur, seven of them from the BJP, have resolved not to take part "in any manner" in the formation of a new popular government while the state remains under President's Rule.

The decision was announced by Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) general secretary Khaikhohauh Gangte after a joint meeting of KIM and its federating bodies on July 4.

"No Kuki-Zo MLA shall participate in forming a new government," the resolution reads, adding that the community will "under no circumstances compromise our ancestral land, culture, identity, or political, social and economic rights."


Valley-side response
BJP MLA Y Khemchand Singh-seen as a contender for the chief minister's post-said the Centre is working "step by step" to restore normalcy. He cited recent seizures of illicit arms in both valley and hill districts and ongoing peace talks led by the Union Home Ministry.

"Under the able leadership of Home Minister Amit Shah, several initiatives have begun. Resolving the crisis will take time, but the hardship faced by people will be addressed sensibly," he said.