"GOI fuelling new conflict through SoO"
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 22 2025: Zeliangrong United Committee, Manipur president Meibon Phao-mei has questioned motives of the Government of India (GOI) and accused it of trying to incite fresh conflict between the Ku kis and the Nagas after the Meetei-Kuki crisis under the garb of addressing issues arising out of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement.

Addressing media persons at Namdunlong, Meibon stressed the need for thorough examination of the Government of India's intention to continue Suspension of Operation (SoO) in Manipur, stating that the findings are deeply concerning.

Tn the name of SoO, ethnic based issues are being raked up in Manipur to create tension and conflict among different communities even as the state is yet to get respite from the conflict between the Kukis and Meeteis since May, 2023, he said.

According to Meibon Phaomei, while the present President's Rule administration in Manipur has managed to stop gunfights between the Kukis and Meeteis, it is planning to set up SoO camps in Zeliangrong Naga areas.

In the name of reducing SoO camps, the Government of India is planning to create another conflict, he alleged.

Asserting that Tamenglong and Noney districts are predominately settled by Zeliangrong Naga, one of the original setters of Manipur, Meibon Phaomei criticised the Government of India's silence when Kukis migrated from other places claim Zeliangrong Naga inhabited areas as theirs.

"The number of SoO camps could be reduced to bring peace and normalcy but the camps should be opened in Kuki populated districts like Churachandpur, Pherzawl and Tengnoupal, he asserted, opposing any plans, to open SoO camps in Zeliangrong area.

Meibon Phaomei also said that the Zeliangrong United Committee, Manipur supports the indefinite bandh called by Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) while stated that Kuki Zo Council cannot advise United Naga Council in this matter.

He continued that Kukis are new settlers in Naga inhabited areas of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts and they must stop the demand for separation.

Comment