The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) has publicly opposed Manipur government's directive to submit weapons to jurisdictional police stations.
They argue that this move, based solely on election-related matters, could escalate tensions and insecurity among the Kuki-Zo people.
According to ITLF chairman Pagin Haokip, surrendering weapons would leave the community vulnerable to threats from the majority Meitei community. Haokip highlighted that guns submitted in 2023 haven't been returned, raising doubts about the government's intentions.
In response to the government order, the ITLF urged all Kuki-Zo individuals and village volunteers to resist complying with the government's order, which they deem as harmful and driven by hateful ideologies.
The government's reaction to ITLF's rejection remains pending as tensions persist in the region.
