The Kuki-Zo community in Manipur has renewed its demand for a separate administration, with a four-member delegation meeting representatives of the central government on Friday. Led by Henlianthang Thanglet, chairman of the Kuki-Zo Council, the team pressed for the establishment of a Union Territory with legislative powers under Article 239(A) of the Constitution. The delegation presented its case to a two-member central team headed by interlocutor A.K. Mishra, emphasizing the urgency of initiating political dialogue to address the community’s grievances. “We have reiterated our demand for a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo people and urged the Centre to expedite political discussions,” said council spokesperson Ginza Vualzong.
The demand stems from ongoing ethnic tensions between the hill-based Kuki-Zo tribes and the valley-dwelling Meitei community. The Kuki-Zo Council has also sought strict adherence to buffer zones to prevent further clashes between the two groups. The meeting comes shortly after the council’s engagement with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla in Churachandpur. During the interaction, the council called for the restoration of peace and resolution of issues plaguing the community. Governor Bhalla assured his support and appealed for cooperation to maintain harmony in the state.
Efforts to bridge the divide between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities have faced significant challenges. In October 2024, a joint meeting in Delhi involving MLAs from both groups failed to take place, as Kuki-Zo legislators declined to meet their Meitei counterparts. Instead, separate discussions were held with central representatives. Meitei organizations, however, oppose the demand for a separate administration and have called for the abrogation of Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreements with Kuki-Zo insurgent groups. Ethnic violence has gripped Manipur since May 2023, following a “Tribal Solidarity March” protesting the Meitei community’s push for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The clashes have claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands, leaving the state in a prolonged state of unrest.
