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Kuki-Zomi Outfits Reaffirm Demand for Union Territory in Manipur

Kuki-Zomi groups in Manipur have reaffirmed their demand for a Union Territory with legislature, a goal set after May 2023. They have decided to boycott Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh's proposed visit to Churachandpur. A joint monitoring cell has been formed to monitor social media for communal disharmony. Internal discussions continue on the use of 'Kuki-Zo' versus 'Kuki-Zomi' nomenclature.

Key Points: Kuki-Zomi Groups Demand UT Status in Manipur

  • Kuki-Zomi groups demand UT with legislature
  • Boycott Manipur CM's proposed visit to Churachandpur
  • Joint monitoring cell set up for social media monitoring
  • Internal discussions on 'Kuki-Zo' nomenclature ongoing
2 min read

Kuki and Zomi outfits reaffirm demand for UT with legislature in Manipur​

Kuki-Zomi groups reiterate demand for Union Territory with legislature in Manipur, boycott CM's visit, set up joint monitoring cell.

"The common political goal... remains the demand for a Union Territory with Legislature - Kuki National Organisation and Zomi Reunification Organisation"

Imphal, May 12

The Kuki National Organisation and the Zomi Reunification Organisation in Manipur have reiterated that their common political goal, adopted after May 3, 2023, remains the demand for a Union Territory with Legislature, and that the position will continue until any further decision is taken.​

The Kuki National Organisation, an umbrella body of several Kuki-Zo insurgent groups currently under the Suspension of Operations agreement with the government, and the Zomi Reunification Organisation, a constituent of the United Peoples' Front, which is also under the Suspension of Operations pact, made the announcement in a joint statement issued after a meeting held at the residence of the Zomi Reunification Organisation President.​

During the meeting, the Kuki National Organisation and the Zomi Reunification Organisation unanimously resolved not to participate in any programme involving Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh during his proposed visit to Churachandpur, the hill district predominantly inhabited by members of the Kuki-Zo community.​

The two organisations also decided to closely monitor incidents of communal disharmony allegedly spread through various social media platforms, including Facebook pages.​

To address the issue, they constituted a Joint Monitoring Cell comprising the Information and Public Relations Departments of both organisations.​

According to the statement, the secretaries of the two organisations would jointly supervise and coordinate the Joint Monitoring Cell's operations.​

Regarding the issue of the term "Kuki-Zo" as common nomenclature, which the Zomi side reportedly considers unacceptable, the Kuki National Organisation cabinet will first hold internal discussions with leaders who advocate its use.​

Following those consultations, the matter would be placed before the two organisations again at their next joint meeting.​

The statement further said that leaders from the Zomi side suggested using the term "Kuki-Zomi" in recognition of the broader common political movement.​

Regarding the proposal to form a Central Working Committee to coordinate and monitor the ongoing political dialogue, the statement said the Zomi Reunification Organisation cabinet would deliberate on the matter internally before placing it again for discussion at the next meeting.​

At present, a total of 23 underground outfits -- including eight under the United Peoples' Front and 15 under the Kuki National Organisation -- remain under the Suspension of Operations agreement with the Government of India, a pact that has been in force since August 2008.​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The Kuki-Zo vs Kuki-Zomi nomenclature debate reveals deeper identity issues within the community. While they unite against the state government, internal differences remain. The Joint Monitoring Cell for social media is a sensible step - hate speech online is a real problem in Manipur right now. Let's hope it leads to genuine communication rather than just monitoring.
A
Arun Y
Another demand for UT from these groups. Meanwhile, the common man in Manipur struggles with daily life, bandhs, and uncertainty. The government should focus on development and peace, not just suspension of operations agreements that never lead anywhere. 😔
N
Naveen S
I get the political point these organisations are making, but refusing to meet the Chief Minister doesn't help anyone. Dialogue is the only way forward. The Joint Monitoring Cell for social media is actually a constructive step - fake news and communal posts have been fueling violence. Let's hope they focus on what unites people, not divides them.
D
Deepika L
These 23 underground outfits have been under SoO for over a decade and a half. What has the government achieved? The situation in Manipur keeps getting worse with ethnic violence. The Centre needs a fresh approach instead of just renewing these agreements year after year. A UT with legislature might seem extreme, but perhaps it's time to listen to what these communities actually want.
S
Suresh O
The fact that they are even discussing the nomenclature issue shows a willingness to negotiate internally. 'Kuki-Zomi' might be a workable compromise. The real question is whether the Manipur government is ready for serious talks with these groups. The CM's proposed visit to Churachandpur being boycotted sends a strong message about trust deficit between the valley

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