Kuki bodies advise Meeteis not to cross buffer zone
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 10 2025: Amid efforts by the union government to resolve the nearly two-year old ethnic conflict in the state, Kuki organisations on Thursday advised the Meetei community not to enter into Kuki-Zo-Hmar inhabited areas.

In a joint statement Churachandpur district-based Kuki Inpi, Kuki Chief Association, Kuki Khanglai Lompi General Headquarters, Kuki Students' Organisation and Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights, said that there was speculation that the Meetei community people intend to cross the buffer zone for offering prayers atop Thangjing Hills, referred to as Thangting by the Kuki-Zos, in the month of April.

"Unless and until a political settlement is reached by the government of India for the Kuki-Zo-Hmar community under the Constitution of India, no such friendly approach to the jurisdiction of Kuki-Zo-Hmar land would be allowed for the Meetei community," cautioned the Kuki organisations.

The chairman criticised the structure of the dialogue, stating that the Government must first engage in separate consultations with each community before initiating joint talks.

He reiterated an urgent appeal to the ministry to ensure all future dialogues are conducted with legitimate, mandated representatives of both communities.

He also voiced concern over the lack of clarity regarding further meetings.

"We were informed that no further joint meetings will be initiated.

If we are not invited or consulted, how are we expected to participate?" he asked.

They pointed out that to avoid further escalation, each community must maintain the status-quo and respect the buffer zone.

Any intention to cross the buffer zone would be opposed tooth and nail by the Kuki-Zo-Hmar community people, the statement said and urged the government to take measures to safeguard the interests of the two communities.

(With inputs from PTI) .

Comment