Kuki Civil Groups Oppose Proposed 11 IRB Camp Near Saivom

TENGNOUPAL, August 25, 2026: Kuki civil groups in Manipur's Tengnoupal district have opposed the proposed tendering and construction of the 11th Indian Reserve Battalion (11 IRB) at Saivom village, alleging that the process is being undertaken without meaningful consultation with the local elected representative, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

In a press release issued on Aug 25, the groups said the establishment of a major security installation would have far-reaching implications for the local community, land, environment, administration and development.

They said decisions of such significance should not be taken without proper consultation with elected representatives and civil society organisations representing affected communities. The groups also said no new state security force post should be established anywhere in the district, including at Saivom or Lokchao/Tuipi village, until peace and normalcy are restored.

The Kuki civil groups called for transparency, consultation, due process and consideration of local concerns before any tendering or construction proceeds.

They urged the Manipur government and concerned authorities to put the tendering and construction process on hold until complete normalcy is established, and to formally record and consider the views and concerns of local residents in the decision-making process.

The groups also said people in Tengnoupal have the right to seek clarity and accountability over major government projects that directly affect their communities.

They warned that failure by the government to consider local concerns would invite strong opposition and said the government would be held responsible. They appealed to the Manipur chief minister, concerned ministers, the chief secretary, the director general of police and other competent authorities to intervene and ensure that no construction activity takes place until a transparent and meaningful consultation process is completed.

The statement was signed by representatives of the Kuki Chiefs Association, Tengnoupal district; Hill Tribal Council, Moreh; Manipur Area Welfare Council; Kuki Women Union-Human Rights, Tengnoupal district; and Kuki Students' Organisation, Tengnoupal district.

The organisations said they remained committed to pursuing the matter through democratic and lawful means and urged the authorities to respond positively to the concerns raised by the people and civil society organisations of Tengnoupal district.