CoTU opposes FOCS move, warns of renewed violence and unrest
Source: The Sangai Express

Kangpokpi, March 07 2025: In response to the resolution passed by the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) Manipur, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has condemned the planned march to the "hill districts of the Kuki-Zo community", calling it a blatant breach of the buffer zones.

Stating that the Kuki-Zo community have consistently advocated for the sanctity of these buffer zones, CoTU asserted that these zones have served as the last line of deterrence against escalating violence and aggression.

Any attempt to undermine this arrangement risks reigniting conflict in the region, warned CoTU.

Furthermore, the Kuki-Zo leadership has rejected the "free movement" proposal endorsed by Home Minister Amit Shah and conveyed by the Governor of Manipur, labelling it a misrepresentation of the ground reality.

Contrary to accusations, CoTU claimed that essential commodities and food supplies passing through Kuki-Zo-dominated areas along National Highway 2 have never been deliberately blocked.

The Committee argued that any disruptions along the route were brief and "only meant to draw the Centre's attention to the valley's failure to reciprocate humanitarian efforts�a situation that remains unresolved" .

Terming FOCS' march bid as a "planned intrusion under the guise of assessing the Central Government's peace initiatives", CoTU called it a dangerous provocation that could trigger fresh conflict.

Reiterating their demand for Separate Administration under Article 239 A of the Constitution, CoTU urged the Governor to uphold justice for the Kuki-Zo community.

Comment