Kuki-Zo Council urges FNCC to lift bandh
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 19 2025: Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the indefinite bandh imposed by Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC), which restricts the movement of Kuki-Zo people through Naga-inhabited areas.

The bandh came into effect from midnight of July 18.In a press statement issued Saturday, the Council described the blockade as "unconstitutional, inhumane, and unchristianly", and appealed for its immediate withdrawal.

It noted that the ongoing ethnic conflict, which erupted on May 3, 2023, between Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities, has already inflicted severe humanitarian consequences on the Kuki-Zo people.

Citing the loss of more than 150 lives, the destruction of over 7,000 homes and 360 churches, KZC said that the community has faced "unimaginable losses and trauma" .

With transit through Meetei-dominated areas no longer safe, the community has been forced to rely on alternative routes, many of which pass through Naga areas.

The bandh, the Council said, further deepens the humanitarian crisis and restricts access to vital movement.

"It is deeply saddening that, as fellow tribals and Christians, such actions are being undertaken without due consideration of the plight of our people," KZC stated.

The Council called for dialogue and mutual respect to address any grievances and urged FNCC and Naga communities to show compassion and solidarity.

"Let us not allow division and suspicion to overshadow the bonds of shared faith and struggle," the statement said, urging peaceful resolution between both communities.

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