NSCN rejects ancestral land claims by Kukis
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 14 2025: NSCN, GPRN collective leadership member Karaibo Chawang on Thursday said that Kukis came to Manipur only after the Treaty of Yandaboo signed between the British and Myanmar in 1826 and asserted that there is no "Indigenous Kuki" or "Kuki ancestral land" in the state.

Speaking at the 79th Naga Independence Day held at the district sports complex, Chamdil Christian village, Chandel district, Karaibo Chawang asserted that Nagas want to live in peace with the Meeteis, Kukis and all communities but will not tolerate any infringement on their rights.

The event was organised by All Naga Students' Association Manipur (ANSAM) in collaboration with Naga civil society organisations of Chandel district.

A message from NSCN, GPRN general secretary Th Muivah was read out to the gathering by collective leadership member Puni Mao.

Karaibo Chawang reiterated that as historical records prove that Kukis arrived in Manipur during the British era, making claims of indigenous status and ancestral land are baseless.

He criticised attempts to rename roads in Naga areas as "German Road" or "Tiger Road" and said that such acts disregard existing inter-village roads and Naga ownership.

He also demanded that the historical and land ownership rights of Nagas be respected, cautioning that no Suspension of Operations (SoO) camps should be established in Naga areas.

The Government of India should approach the issue with balanced consideration rather than favouring one side, he added.

The event drew over a thousand participants of various Naga communities in Chandel district.

It was inaugurated by Puni Mao, who hoisted the Naga flag.

Students, volunteers and tribal representatives staged a march past parade.

NSCN, GPRN's political affairs committee convenor Angnaikham Makuwnga, collective leadership member Johnny T Dilbung, UNC vice-president N Gonmei Pouzan, and leaders from Naga Hoho, NSF, ANSAM, NSUC, CNPO and other organisations also attended the event.

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