In a significant development amid the prolonged crisis in Manipur, Meetei youth organisation Arambai Tengol has publicly stated that all Kukis are not enemies of the state, marking what many observers see as a notable change in tone at a sensitive time.
The statement was made by Korounganba Khuman, a leader of the organisation, during a public function held in Imphal. Addressing the gathering, Khuman said that the organisation does not view all members of the Kuki community as adversaries and acknowledged that many Kuki citizens have lived peacefully in Manipur for generations.
He stressed that for Manipur to become peaceful and develop in a balanced manner, there must be strong mechanisms to stop illegal migration into the state. According to him, unchecked migration could lead to serious demographic imbalances. He also called for a strict and complete ban on illegal poppy cultivation, which he claimed is taking place in certain areas and is contributing to instability. 
Khuman said identifying illegal migrants should be done strictly through constitutionally accepted measures. These could include processes such as the National Register of Citizens (NRC) or any other legal provision that helps identify illegal settlers and prevent further migration. “We have no problem with Kuki citizens who have been living here for a long time,” he said, adding that the issue should be addressed collectively and lawfully.
He further appealed for unity among communities, saying that people must fight illegal activities together and work towards peaceful coexistence in Manipur.
Several political scientists and observers have described the remarks as a positive signal that could help restore normalcy in the state. They believe such statements, if followed by concrete actions, may open space for dialogue and reduce tensions.
It may be noted that during the ongoing crisis, Arambai Tengol has faced allegations of involvement in violent activities, which the group has previously denied.
The remarks also come days after COCOMI, a conglomerate of Meetei civil society organisations, announced that Kukis who had left Imphal due to the unrest were welcome to return, stating there would be no threat to those wishing to resettle.
