The Struggle for Belonging: The Plight of Kukis as 'Foreigners' in Manipur

The issue of identity and belonging has been a long-standing problem in the northeastern state of Manipur, where various ethnic communities coexist in a complex and sometimes tense relationship. One of the communities that has been facing a unique challenge in Manipur is the Kuki community, who have been living in the state for generations but are often treated as foreigners or outsiders.

The Kuki community, also known as the Zo people, is an indigenous community that primarily inhabits the hill districts of Manipur, as well as other parts of Northeast India and Myanmar. The Kukis have a rich cultural heritage and a history of resistance against colonialism and oppression. However, despite their long history of living in Manipur, the Kukis are often treated as second-class citizens or even foreigners in their own land.

The Kukis have faced discrimination and marginalization in various forms, such as being denied access to government services, education, and employment opportunities. They are often perceived as outsiders by the dominant Meitei community, who have historically held political and economic power in Manipur. The Kukis have also faced violence and persecution, such as during the ethnic clashes of the 1990s, which led to the displacement of thousands of Kuki families.

The issue of being Kuki as a foreigner in Manipur has also been exacerbated by the political and legal framework in the state. Manipur has an Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, which restricts the entry of outsiders into the state. However, the Kukis, despite being indigenous to Manipur, are often subjected to the same restrictions as non-locals, which further reinforces their sense of being outsiders in their own land.

The issue of Kukis being treated as foreigners in Manipur has attracted the attention of various civil society groups and human rights activists. They have called for an end to discrimination and marginalization against the Kukis and for the recognition of their rights as indigenous people. The Kuki Students' Organisation, the Kuki Women's Human Rights Organisation, and other civil society groups have been advocating for the inclusion of Kuki language and culture in the state curriculum, as well as for the protection of Kuki land rights.

The Kuki community has also been seeking political representation and autonomy in Manipur. They have been demanding the creation of a separate Kuki state or district within Manipur, which would allow them greater control over their political and economic destiny. However, this demand has been met with resistance from other communities in the state, who fear that it would lead to further fragmentation and division.

The issue of being Kuki as a foreigner in Manipur highlights the complex challenges facing the state in terms of identity, representation, and belonging. While the Kukis have a long history of living in Manipur, they continue to face discrimination and marginalization in various forms. The government and civil society groups must work together to address these challenges and ensure that the Kukis are treated with dignity and respect as equal citizens of Manipur.

In conclusion, the Kuki community's struggle for recognition and inclusion in Manipur is a reminder of the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of all communities, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background. It is imperative that the government and civil society groups work together to create a more inclusive and equitable society, where all citizens can live with dignity and respect.