Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) is pushing the Centre to speed up the creation of a Union Territory with a legislature for the Kuki-Zo people. The group claims a total breakdown of governance and trust in the region makes continued coexistence under the current state administration impossible. This formal request comes in a counter-memo sent to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
KIM flatly rejected accusations leveled against the Kuki-Zo community and Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen by Naga legislators. They called these claims "unfounded" and warned that such rhetoric only fuels instability. The body argued that blaming a constitutional authority like Kipgen without evidence or due process is improper, stating that representatives should not be held responsible for the actions of non-state actors.
The region remains a powder keg. Ethnic conflict has simmered since May 2023, leaving Kuki-Zo civilians to face constant road blockades, isolation, and harassment in mixed and border zones. Tensions spiked further following incidents in Gampal and Haijang in April 2025, along with a clash at Litan-Sareikhong in Ukhrul. According to the KIM, a fresh wave of violence between February 8 and 9, 2026, destroyed 23 Kuki-Zo villages and left 18 civilians dead.
The group also defended the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. Naga legislators have demanded the pact be scrapped, but KIM insists the framework remains a vital mechanism for peace and negotiation. They warn that dismantling it would kill any chance for dialogue. The organization is now calling for central agencies to launch transparent, independent investigations into all recent ambushes and killings.
Ultimately, the KIM claims a "structural solution" is the only way forward. They argue that a Union Territory is the only path to ensure security, dignity, and self-governance for the Kuki-Zo people. They urged all elected officials to choose de-escalation over unilateral attacks to prevent further division.
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