Kuki Tribe Reiterates Demand for Autonomous Regional Council

Diphu: Kuki National Assembly in its daylong political convention held on last Monday at its headquarter in Manja 16 kilometers from Diphu went over its previous demand of ‘Kukigam Autonomous Regional Council’ to be created under the provision of sixth schedule of Indian constitution, encompassing the Kuki inhabited areas of Karbi Anglong district.

The convention of the indigenous Kuki tribe was largely attended by village headmen, theological leaders, women organizations, intellects and members of Kuki ultra organizations under ceasefire status.

“The KNA has resolved to approach various authorities who can assert making of ‘Kukigam Autonomous Regional Council’ a reality under sub Para (2) of part (1) of sixth schedule of our constitution to give a practical shape of the KARC,” said Tongthang Touthang President of KNA after the convention.

He said the house’ opinion is the practical solution of the Kukis.

The Kukis are untold problems including economic and social challenges under the administrative setup of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council.

“We are deprived of every legitimate right and privileges, we are firm on implementing the provisions envisaged in the constitution,” added Tongthang Touthang.

Some of the grievances experienced by the Kukis are milititant activities.

The convention has resolved to urge Government to arrange tripartite meeting involving Assam government, Center and KNA to resolve the issue amicably, the Kuki organization and have sought appointment of Assam Governor and Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi for initiating dialogue on the issue.

Sushanta Roy is a journalist in Assam, India, who photographs and writes about the people, animals and flora of Assam, and the things that affect them.