KZC not welcomed in Churachandpur: Zomi Council
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 05 2025: Zomi Council has strongly denounced what it calls illegitimate actions and divisive agenda pursued by the "so-called" Kuki-Zo Council, following reports that the Central government had invited a particular hill-based Civil Society Organisation (CSO) for discreet talks regarding the reopening of National Highways in the troubled state.

In a press statement issued on August 4, the Zomi Council expressed concern that such discussions were being held without its participation or that of its affiliated bodies, especially on matters concerning National Highway 2 (Tipaimukh Road) and National Highway 102B (Guite Road).

The Council emphasised that these are Zomi-inhabited territories, vigilantly protected by the local population who hold a deep sense of commitment and love for their land.

It warned that any arrangement on these roads made without the involvement of the Zomi Council would be considered obsolete and untenable.

The statement also lashed out at a recent meeting held in Kangpokpi on July 29, which was reportedly attended by delegates from Churachandpur.

These delegates, the Council claimed, were escorted to and fro via Imphal Valley by Assam Rifles personnel in what it described as an apparent effort to "prop up a ragtag group of dissidents into a puppet and pliable formation".

According to the council, the same security force, led by a Major, escorted the delegation again on August 4 along NH-102B to Aizawl.

The Zomi Council termed the involvement of Assam Rifles in favour of the said CSO as "truly abominable" and accused the force of playing a divisive role.

The Council reiterated that it had, through Resolution No 1 passed in its Annual General Assembly on May 11, 2024, formally rejected the term "Kuki-Zo" as a legitimate identity.

It declared that any organisation bearing the name "Kuki-Zo Council" is unwelcomed in Zomi-inhabited areas, particularly in Churachandpur district and the township.

It warned Kuki-Zo Council to restrict its operations and set up office only in areas where it is accepted, "if any", to ensure its own safety and comfort.

The Council further criticised what it described as reckless and fictitious claims of insecurity used to justify the deployment of armed guards in residential areas, stating that such practices pose a direct threat to public safety.

The Zomi Council reaffirmed its commitment to stand by its nine constituent tribes and pledged to continue working for their security, dignity and well-being.

It appealed to government authorities to respect the strong sense of ownership Zomi people have over their ancestral lands.

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