Poppy cultivation peeves ZUF
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 24 2025: The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has raised serious concerns about ongoing poppy cultivation, the alleged establishment of unauthorized Suspension of Operations (SoO) camps, and the harassment of commuters in Zeliangrong and other indigenous territories.

In a press release issued by Franky Gonmei, Ministry of Information and Publicity, the ZUF warned illegal immigrant militant groups to immediately stop all unlawful activities, including the killing or theft of livestock such as cows, goats, and other domesticated animals in the foothill areas of the Zeliangrong Naga region.

These acts conducted without compensation are blatant violations of the land and rights of the indigenous people.

Even as the ZUF did not specify any particular group by name, SoO pact is a tripartite agreement signed between the Centre, the Manipur Government and over two Kuki militant groups.

Despite repeated appeals and stem warnings, certain groups and individuals persist in violating the sanction of Zeliangrong ancestral land, it said.

Urging all parties concerned to immediately cease such violations and vacate all illegally occupied areas, the ZUF stated that it will not remain a silent spectator to the construction of illegal villages within Zeliangrong Naga ancestral territories.

Furthermore, the Front said that it does not permit armed refugees or militants to loiter or operate within the ancestral land of the Zeliangrong people.

"All parties involved are strong advised to withdraw peacefully within one week, failing which the ZUF will take necessary actions to protect the land, people and their inherent rights," it said and added that the ZUF remains resolute and committed in its mission to defend the ancestral land and uphold the dignity and rights of the Zeliangrong people.

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