Manipur’s Controversial Proposal to Delist Kuki Tribes From ST Status
The Manipur government has sparked controversy by proposing the removal of “Any Kuki Tribes” from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. The Tribal Affairs Ministry has responded cautiously, stressing that any decision requires thorough scrutiny. This move has intensified tensions in Manipur, where the Kuki-Zomi tribes have held ST status for decades, ensuring constitutional protections.
Why the ST List Matters
The Scheduled Tribes list, governed by Article 342 of the Indian Constitution, identifies indigenous communities eligible for reservations in education, jobs, and political representation. In Manipur, tribes like the Thadou, Paite, Vaiphei, and Zou have been STs since Independence. Removing them could strip away critical rights and deepen ethnic divisions.
Manipur’s Proposal: Key Details
Sources suggest the state government cited “administrative and demographic reasons” for the delisting, though specifics remain undisclosed. Analysts link this to the Meitei vs. Kuki-Zomi conflict, which has fueled violence since May 2023.
Tribal groups, including the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) and Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), have condemned the move as an “attack on tribal identity.”
Tribal Affairs Ministry’s Stance
The Union Ministry has confirmed receipt of the proposal but clarified that no immediate changes will occur. A senior official stated:
“All ST modifications require review by the Registrar General of India and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST). Due process will be followed.”
The Centre’s cautious approach reflects Manipur’s fragile state, where 200+ deaths and mass displacements have already occurred.
Political and Legal Challenges
- BJP’s Dilemma: Critics accuse the state government of polarizing Meitei voters, especially after the Centre rejected Meitei ST demands in 2023.
- Legal Precedent: Experts argue ST status is based on historical backwardness, not politics. Courts may block arbitrary removals.
- NCST’s Role: The constitutional body must approve changes, emphasizing data-driven decisions.
Protests and Public Outcry
Kuki-Zomi communities have held mass rallies in Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Tengnoupal. Online campaigns like #SaveKukiSTStatus are trending, with activists warning of escalated unrest if the proposal passes.
What’s Next?
The Centre is expected to delay a decision until Manipur stabilizes. With Lok Sabha elections nearing, the BJP risks backlash by altering ST lists. For now, Kuki-Zomi tribes await clarity on their future.
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