Kuki-Zo observes 'Inevitable Separation Day'
Source: Chronicle News Service / Kaimuanthang Mangte
CCpur, May 03 2025:
Thousands of Kuki-Zo people gathered at the Wall of Remembrance on Friday to mark the second anniversary of their "inevitable separation" from the Meetei community - a division that stemmed from the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3, 2023 .
The observance was marked by solemn ceremonies, including choir performances of songs composed in memory of those killed in the ongoing violence.
A minute of silence, led by reverend Dr Songate, was also observed in honour of those who lost their lives during the conflict, which has continued unabated for two years.
As part of the programme, the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) distributed compensation to families of victims and other relatives affected by the violence.
A total of 127 beneficiaries were identified to receive Rs 1 lakh each, and on Friday, 22 martyr families received their compensation.
Over Rs 1 crore in donations has been raised from various sections of society to support this initiative.
Speaking to reporters, Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) spokesperson Ginza Vualzong reiterated the community's demand for a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory.
He stated that justice must come through a political solution and that the movement for separation would continue until their demands are fulfilled.
Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) Churachandpur vice-president Lenminlal Gangte stated that peace cannot be the precondition for resolving the Conflict with the Meetei community.
KSO social and cultural affairs secretary Gracy highlighted the scale of devastation, including lives lost and churches burned, stating that the idea of resuming free movement was impossible without addressing their political demands.
Addressing the gathering, Saikot MLA Paolienlal Haokip stressed the importance of perseverance, urging the people to stay united and committed even if the movement becomes prolonged.
Kuki-Zo Council chairman Henlianthang Thanglet also provided updates on the dialogue held with central government representatives.
Responding to questions about the government's apparent focus on Indo-Pakistan relations while sidelining the demands of the Kuki-Zo people, he said that their issue is a domestic matter and resolving it should not be difficult if there is genuine interest.
Claiming that their demand was not secessionist, but a call for separation from the Meeteis due to historical exclusion from central welfare schemes, Thanglet said that their aim is development and equal progress and urged the government to acknowledge and act on their grievances.
A similar observance was also held at Sehken village's Martyrs' Burial Park, beginning at 2 pm under the aegis of Zomi Council.
Families and relatives of the deceased, along with leaders of frontal organisations and lawmakers, attended the ceremony.
Among them were Churachandpur MLA and former DGP LM Khaute, and Thanlon MLA Vungzagin Valte, who survived a mob attack in Imphal on May 4, 2023 .
Speaking at the ceremony, LM Khaute reiterated the collective decision made by all 10 Kuki-Zomi MLAs on May 15, 2023, to demand political autonomy in the form of a Union Territory.
He stressed the urgent need for such a status to safeguard the identity and future of the community.
Zomi Council chairman Vumsuan Naulak also addressed the gathering, alongside musical performances including a special number by veteran country singer Lianlunching.
The ceremony concluded with an emotional floral tribute offered by participants at the graves of 126 martyrs.
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