Context:
Recently, Arambai Tenggol summoned nearly all Meitei politicians representing valley areas, including MLAs and Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha MPs, to meet at the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal, Manipur.
About Arambai Tenggol (AT):
- Arambai Tenggol started as a cultural organization in 2020 but transitioned into a radical group.
- The group, along with Meitei Leepun, is suspected of involvement in the violent Meitei-Kuki clashes of May 2023.
- Both groups reportedly grew rapidly in size and acquired armaments during the conflict.
- They face accusations of violence against Kukis, and Nagas, and even engaging in a gunfight with Assam Rifles.
Meeting objectives:
The politicians were called to discuss Arambai Tenggol’s demands, which include:
- Removing Kukis from the Scheduled Tribes list.
- Deporting refugees to Mizoram camps.
- Fencing the Manipur-Myanmar border.
- Replacing Assam Rifles with another paramilitary force.
- Revoking the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militants.
- Arambai Tenggol leader Korounganba Khuman addressed a large gathering at Khwairamband Ima Market.
- Various media reports suggest the politicians were made to take an oath and pressured to present these demands to the central government.