A significant joint meeting of key Kuki-Zo civil and community organizations held at the Kuki Inpi Manipur secretariat in Bijang, Churachandpur, on Thursday, unanimously resolved that no Kuki-Zo Members of the Manipur Legislative Assembly (MLAs) shall participate in forming a new popular government in the state.
The meeting saw participation from top representatives of various organizations, including the Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Students’ Organisation-General Headquarters, Kuki Khanglai Lawmpi-GHQ, Kuki Christian Leaders’ Forum, Kuki Women’s Union-GHQ, Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights-GHQ, Kuki Chiefs’ Association-Manipur, along with district units and department heads.
After extensive deliberations, the gathering passed a resolution stating that no Kuki-Zo MLA shall “participate or take part in any manner in the formation of a new popular government in the state of Manipur.” The resolution emphasized the Kuki-Zo community’s unwavering commitment to protecting their ancestral land, culture, identity, and political, social, and economic rights under all circumstances.
“The resolution reflects the collective political will and aspiration of the Kuki-Zo people and is binding upon all Kuki-Zo representatives and community organizations,” the joint statement declared, urging strict adherence to the resolution “in letter and spirit.”
This decision comes amid ongoing demands by 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs, including seven from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), for a ‘separate administration’ in the form of Union Territory status. These demands have persisted since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, highlighting the community’s push for greater autonomy and security.
The resolution underscores the Kuki-Zo community’s unified stance and is expected to have significant implications for Manipur’s political landscape as discussions around governance and representation continue.
