KHRC Condemns Participation of 3 Kuki MLAs in Assembly

LAMKA, September 2, 2026: The Kuki Human Rights Council (KHRC) has expressed its strongest condemnation and deep anguish over the participation of three Kuki MLAs in the 8th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly held at Imphal on September 2, 2026.

Shri Haokholet Kipgen, MLA, Saitu, and Smt. Kimneo Haokip Hangshing, MLA, Saikul, were physically present in Imphal, while Smt. Nemcha Kipgen attended in virtual mode as Deputy Chief Minister.

The KHRC termed the participation a complete betrayal of the sacrifices of more than 250 innocent Kuki lives lost, thousands displaced, hundreds of villages burnt, and churches destroyed since May 3, 2023. It said that at a time when the Kuki people are still living in relief camps and justice has not been delivered, attending the Assembly in Imphal, which remains inaccessible to the common Kuki people, is insensitive and against the collective decision of the Kuki community.

The Kuki people have been demanding a separate state or Union Territory under Article 239A. The KHRC said the MLAs were elected to represent the political aspirations of the Kuki people, not to legitimize a majoritarian Assembly that has failed to protect their lives and rights.

The KHRC further clarified that the post of Deputy Chief Minister held by Smt. Nemcha Kipgen under the present Government of Manipur is not accepted and not recognized by the Kuki people. It said the Kuki people have already rejected the present Government of Manipur and its institutions since May 3, 2023, and that any position or portfolio under such a government cannot represent the Kuki people.

According to the council, by participating in the session, the three MLAs have undermined the struggle of the Kuki people and disrespected the sentiments of the mothers, widows and orphans of the conflict.

The KHRC demanded that all three Kuki MLAs immediately withdraw from the session and refrain from taking any step that weakens the demand for separate administration. It also appealed to all Kuki civil society organizations, village chiefs and church leaders to condemn the participation.