The Tenyimi Peoples’ Organization (TPO) on Wednesday has appealed for maintaining peaceful co-existence in Manipur.
The press statement issued by Timikha Koza, President and Kathu Rengma, General Secretary of TPO stated that “the Tenyimi Peoples’ Organization (TPO) expresses its deep concern over the prevailing tensions in certain parts of Manipur including Kangpokpi District, Manipur, and urges all communities, particularly the Nagas and Kukis, to remain vigilant while upholding the long-standing tradition of peaceful co-existence that has bound our people together for generations.
“The TPO wishes to emphasize that the social and demographic realities of our region require wisdom, restraint, and mutual respect from all sides. There are several Naga villages situated in areas where they are in the minority, just as there are Kuki villages located in Naga-dominated areas, including in parts of Nagaland. This delicate balance has been sustained over the years through understanding and respect for each other’s history, identity, and ancestral land. In this context, the TPO draws attention to the vulnerability of several historic Naga villages in Kangpokpi District, including Thangal Surung in Saikul Sub-Division – a historically significant Naga village as well as Tumnoupokpi, Yaikongpao, Daili, Phyapou, Kongpao Liyai, Liyai Kalapahar, Thanamba, Mahika & Tokpa. The safety, dignity, and rightful existence of these villages must be respected by all concerned.
“The Organization wishes to state clearly that while it remains firmly committed to peace, dialogue, and communal harmony, it will not remain a silent spectator if any individual, organization, or group attempts to intimidate, threaten, or try forcibly evict Naga villages from their ancestral lands. Any such actions would not only undermine peace but would also endanger the fragile trust between communities that has been built over generations.
“The TPO therefore strongly appeals to all community leaders, civil society organizations, and responsible citizens to exercise leadership and ensure that miscreant elements, particularly misguided youths, are not allowed to engage in actions that could disturb the existing communal harmony. Differences must be addressed unitedly through dialogue and mutual understanding, not through confrontation or coercion.
“The Tenyimi Peoples’ Organization reiterates that peaceful co-existence remains the only sustainable path forward, and calls upon all communities to preserve peace, protect one another, and uphold the shared values of dignity, respect, and good neighbourliness” added the statement of TPO.
