kuki zo community

In a bold statement, the Kuki-Zo Council asserts its firm stance against the transition from central to state forces in the hills of Manipur. The council points to a troubled history marked by the complicity of state forces in past conflicts, underscoring the pivotal role of central forces in maintaining order.

In Manipur, the turmoil of three years was met with a vibrant rally advocating for peace and justice, where citizens boldly declared May 3 as 'Anti-Narco Terrorism Day'. Meanwhile, Churachandpur reverberated with voices for 'Separation Day', honoring those displaced. Frustration over the central government’s lack of action was palpable among the thousands who gathered.

In a tragic turn of events, a militant ambush on NH-202 in Manipur's Ukhrul district has resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a retired Army personnel. Three others sustained injuries in the attack that transpired on Saturday afternoon while a convoy made its way from Imphal to Ukhrul.

In a significant gesture, Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh made his way to Senapati district through Kangpokpi, marking the symbolic reopening of National Highway-2. This key artery, which had faced disruptions due to unrest, welcomed its first Chief Ministerial visit since the traumatic events of 2023.

In a tragic turn of events in Bishnupur district, Manipur, a devastating bomb blast claimed the lives of two Meitei children and left their mother critically injured. The incident ignited widespread protests, which escalated tensions, prompting security forces to open fire, resulting in two additional casualties. To regain control, authorities have enforced a curfew and suspended internet access.

In a bid to foster harmony, Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh is set to engage with the Kuki-Zo Council this Saturday in Guwahati. This strategic meeting at a neutral ground underscores the council's commitment to dialogue, as they look to voice their community's concerns and aspirations.

In Churachandpur, tensions escalated as the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum issued a stern warning to Malem Thongam, a cyclist of Meitei heritage, cautioning him against venturing into Kuki-Zo territories. The ITLF underscored that any attempt to traverse the designated buffer zone would be viewed as a 'direct violation,' with serious repercussions looming if he chose to move forward.

In a staunch call for justice, the Tribal Unity Committee has issued an ultimatum, demanding the swift arrest of those responsible for the killings of two Kuki civilians within the next 48 hours.

Fresh tensions flared in Imphal East as armed miscreants, suspected to be from the Kuki community, fired upon Meitei villagers collecting firewood. No casualties were reported, but security was heightened. Meanwhile, heavy firing between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki groups continued in Ukhrul, with a high-level review meeting held by the Manipur CM.

In a groundbreaking initiative, Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh brought together Meitei and Kuki-Zo displaced communities for the first time, facilitating financial assistance through Direct Benefit Transfer.

Tribal Group Seeks Separate Administration

Manipur's Chief Minister virtually addressed displaced Meitei and Kuki-Zo families, offering cash relief and urging trust rebuilding. This marks the first joint outreach since ethnic violence erupted. While resettlement efforts are underway, mistrust persists, with displaced individuals sharing concerns about jobs, education, and healthcare access. The CM pledged support for students and security for patients.

The influential Kuki Zo Council declared a social boycott of any legislator from the community joining CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s govt. Protesters burned tyres and blocked roads in Kangpokpi district, and at least one group called for a shutdown in the hills. In Kangpokpi, roads littered with burning tyres signalled a return to unrest after a period of relative calm across the hills.

Nemcha Kipgen’s appointment as deputy chief minister in the Khemchand Singh-led government has exposed intra-ethnic fault lines within the Kuki-Zo group, which has otherwise been at loggerheads with the majority Meiteis since May 2023

In a decisive move, Manipur's Chief Minister Khemchand successfully garnered support in the assembly through a voice vote. This session marked a notable return of three Kuki-Zo MLAs, including Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen, who joined virtually after previously opting out. The Chief Minister appealed for unity, emphasizing the need to heal divides and foster trust among communities.

Deputy CM Urged To Reject Kuki Label For Thadou Identity

Amid ongoing ethnic tensions, Manipur's Kuki-Zo community, including BJP MLAs, has decided against participating in any future government if President's rule is lifted. This resolution, made at a joint meeting of Kuki-Zo organizations, emphasizes the community's unwavering stance on protecting its land, culture, and rights. The move poses a significant challenge to political normalization efforts without addressing Kuki-Zo concerns.