Manipur Police File FIR Against KSO Delhi Chief Over Threats to Meitei Community
News Summary
On May 17, 2025, Manipur Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Paojakhup Guite, President of the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) Delhi. This action followed the circulation of a video on social media in which Guite allegedly threatened members of the Meitei community, warning them not to cross the buffer zone to attend the upcoming Shirui Festival in Ukhrul. In response, the police have initiated efforts, including raids in neighboring districts, to apprehend Guite. Additionally, security forces from Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Meghalaya have been requested to assist in ensuring the safety of festival attendees.
Understanding the FIR Against KSO Delhi Chief: A Deep Dive into Manipur’s Ethnic Tensions
The Incident: A Threatening Video Surfaces
The FIR against Paojakhup Guite stems from a video that surfaced on social media platforms, where he allegedly issued threats to the Meitei community. In the video, Guite reportedly warned Meitei individuals against crossing the buffer zone to attend the Shirui Festival in Ukhrul. This festival, significant to the Tangkhul Naga tribe, is a cultural event that attracts attendees from various communities.
The timing of this video is particularly sensitive, given the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The state’s law enforcement agencies viewed the video as a potential catalyst for further unrest, prompting swift action.
Law Enforcement’s Response
Upon the video’s circulation, Churachandpur Police registered an FIR against Guite. Recognizing the potential for escalation, the police initiated raids in nearby districts to locate and apprehend him. Furthermore, they sought assistance from security forces in neighboring states—Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Meghalaya—to bolster efforts in ensuring the safety of the Shirui Festival attendees
The police’s proactive measures underscore the gravity with which they regard threats that could exacerbate ethnic tensions. Their swift response aims to prevent any disruption to the festival and maintain communal harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Shirui Festival?
A1: The Shirui Festival is an annual cultural event held in Ukhrul, Manipur, celebrating the Shirui Lily, a rare flower native to the region. It showcases the rich heritage of the Tangkhul Naga tribe through music, dance, and traditional crafts.
Q2: Who is Paojakhup Guite?
A2: Paojakhup Guite is the President of the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) Delhi. He recently came under scrutiny after a video surfaced in which he allegedly threatened the Meitei community regarding their participation in the Shirui Festival.
Q3: What are the main causes of ethnic tensions in Manipur?
A3: Ethnic tensions in Manipur primarily arise from disputes over land rights, political representation, and cultural recognition between various communities, notably the Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. Historical grievances and competition for resources have further exacerbated these issues.
Q4: How are authorities ensuring safety during the Shirui Festival?
A4: Authorities have increased security measures, including heightened patrolling, surveillance, and collaboration with security forces from neighboring states. These steps aim to ensure the safety of all festival attendees and prevent any disruptions.
Q5: What role do community leaders play in maintaining peace?
A5: Community leaders have significant influence over their constituents. By promoting dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation, they can help bridge divides and foster communal harmony. Conversely, inflammatory statements can exacerbate tensions and lead to unrest.
