Imphal, February 20: Kuki-Zo civil society organisations have expressed profound grief and deep sorrow over the demise of Thanlon MLA (L) Vungzagin Valte, who passed away at Medanta Medicity Hospital, Gurugram, following prolonged medical treatment.
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| Thanlon MLA (L) Vungzagin Valte |
According to the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) General Headquarters, Valte had been undergoing continuous treatment for grievous and life-threatening injuries he sustained during the May 4, 2023 attack in Imphal, allegedly carried out by members of Arambai Tenggol. The assault occurred shortly after he returned from a meeting with then Chief Minister N. Biren Singh at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. The attack left him critically injured, leading to prolonged suffering until his demise.
In its condolence message, KSO stated that violence against an elected representative amounts to an assault on democracy itself. The organisation described Valte as a victim of the ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities and termed him a martyr. It reiterated the demand for Separate Administration in the form of a Union Territory with legislature, stating that his passing remains a painful reminder of a turbulent chapter in the State’s history.
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The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi, also mourned his death, describing him as a leader who stood up for the rights of minority tribal communities and criticised what it termed a biased administration during the crisis. The committee stated that Valte was the first elected representative from the tribal Kuki-Zo community to lose his life in the violence that began in May 2023. It further alleged that his security had been compromised during the incident in Imphal valley.
Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), in its condolence message, described him as one of the victims of the violence of May 4, 2023, and said his demise highlights the prolonged suffering endured by the Kuki-Zo people. The organisation called for a just and honourable political and administrative solution to address the grievances of the community.
All the organisations extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Thanlon Assembly Constituency, urging the public to remain calm, united, and resilient during this time of immense grief, while praying for eternal peace for the departed soul.
