Cross used as instrument of occupation ? Kukis erect Cross at Uyokching

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jan 28: In yet another instance of esca-lating tension and hurting religious and historical sentiments of the Meiteis, Kukis have erected a "Cross" at Uyokching in Imphal East district.
The erection of the Cross atop the hill came amid security forces' strict vigil and prohibition on members of both the Meitei and Kuki communities against visiting/venturing into the hill.
Notably, Uyok Ching, a part of Thamnapokpi-Yaingangpokpi areas in Imphal East has been the focal point of the current tension between the communities.
Amid the current conflict, Kuki militants have frequently launched attacks on Meitei settlements in the foothills--Yaingangpokpi, Sanasabi, Thamnapokpi and Sabungkhok Khunou killing and wounding several civilians.
In the end of December 2024, at least three individuals including a police personnel and a journalist were injured in an attack launched by Kuki militants.
In the aftermath of the attack, security forces carried out operations in the area and dismantled several bunkers. Afterwards, members of both communities were reportedly banned from venturing into the area for security reasons.
Another issue that had Uyokching at the centre of the conflict was "Kukis' deliberate attempt to rename the place as Saibol" which members of the public and several civil organisations flagged as "unacceptable".
Meanwhile, the Cross atop Uyokching was reportedly installed by the Kukis this morning.
Uyokching is the second place where Kukis have erected a cross to hurt Meiteis' religious and historical sentiments.
Since the beginning of the conflict on May 3, 2023, Kukis have many times erected Crosses atop hills--sacred or significant to the Meitei communities and their religion and history.
When the tension between the communities was at its peak in September 2023, a Cross and a flag of the Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA) were erected on the sacred Mount Thangjing desecrating Meiteis' religion and history.
In November 2024, a Cross was again erected at the holy shrine of Ibudhou Thangjing sparking public outrage and widespread condemnation.
Notably, the Committee on Protection & Preservation of the Historical Rights of Koubru & Thangjing Hill Ranges had reportedly filed at least 4 complaints with the Government/police in September and November 2023 against desecration of the sacred mountain.
Villagers near Uyokching have meanwhile urged the Government and the security forces to take actions and remove the Cross from Uyokching.
"This erection of the Cross on the hill can't be taken lightly. This happened despite security forces assurance that no members of either communities will be allowed to enter the area. The erection of the Cross in presence of the security forces is both appalling and baffling. The Cross must be removed and no Kukis must be allowed to venture into the area," said a villager.