Centre Urges Manipur Govt to Assess Removing Kukis, Zomis from ST List – Indian Government Initiates Review

**Title:** Centre Requests Manipur Government to Study Delisting Kukis and Zomis from ST List

**Introduction**

In a recent development, the Centre has requested the Manipur Government to conduct a thorough study on the possibility of delisting the Kukis and Zomis from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. This request comes after Thounaojam, a prominent activist, wrote to the Tribal Affairs Minister, Arjun Munda, emphasizing the importance of indigeneity as the primary criterion for defining Scheduled Tribes. The Indian government has initiated a review process to evaluate the implications and potential changes concerning this matter.

**Background**

The issue of categorizing communities as Scheduled Tribes has always been a subject of intense debate and discussion. The Kukis and Zomis, two major ethnic groups residing in Manipur, have been listed as Scheduled Tribes for a considerable period. However, concerns have been raised regarding their eligibility for this categorization, prompting the Centre to intervene and request the Manipur Government to investigate further.

**Importance of Indigeneity**

Thounaojam’s letter to the Tribal Affairs Minister highlights the significance of indigeneity as the primary criterion for defining Scheduled Tribes. The term “indigenous” refers to the original inhabitants of a particular region or territory. By prioritizing indigeneity, the government aims to ensure that the benefits and privileges associated with being designated as a Scheduled Tribe are bestowed upon those who genuinely deserve them.

**Review Process Initiated**

Understanding the gravity of the situation, the Indian government has initiated a comprehensive review process to assess the implications of delisting the Kukis and Zomis from the ST list. This review involves examining various factors, including historical and cultural aspects, to determine the authenticity of their claim to indigeneity. The outcome of this review will have far-reaching consequences for the Kuki and Zomi communities, as well as for the overall policy framework concerning Scheduled Tribes in Manipur.

**Implications and Stakeholder Perspectives**

The potential delisting of the Kukis and Zomis from the ST list has elicited mixed reactions from different stakeholders. Proponents argue that a rigorous review is necessary to ensure that only genuine tribal communities receive the benefits of being classified as Scheduled Tribes. They believe that such a step will help rectify any misclassification or inclusion of non-indigenous groups. On the other hand, opponents express concerns about the potential loss of privileges and protection that the Kukis and Zomis currently enjoy. They argue that any decision to delist these communities should be made with caution, taking into account their historical and cultural significance.

**Conclusion**

The Centre’s request to the Manipur Government to study the delisting of the Kukis and Zomis from the ST list marks an important development in the ongoing debate surrounding Scheduled Tribes in India. By emphasizing the importance of indigeneity as the primary criterion, the government aims to ensure that only deserving communities receive the benefits associated with being classified as Scheduled Tribes. The review process initiated by the Indian government will play a crucial role in determining the future status of the Kukis and Zomis, and will likely shape the overall policy framework concerning Scheduled Tribes in Manipur. As this issue unfolds, it is crucial to consider the diverse perspectives and implications that this decision may have on the affected communities and the broader society..

BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Centre asks Manipur Govt to study delisting Kukis, Zomis from ST list.

Thounaojam wrote to Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda that indigeneity should be the main criterion to define Scheduled Tribes.

Indian government has initiated a review concerning the… pic.twitter.com/9eFpwzQWe5

— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) January 9, 2024

Source

@TimesAlgebraIND said BREAKING NEWS Centre asks Manipur Govt to study delisting Kukis, Zomis from ST list. Thounaojam wrote to Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda that indigeneity should be the main criterion to define Scheduled Tribes. Indian government has initiated a review concerning the… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

RELATED STORY.