IT News
Imphal, Jan 25:
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) continues its campaign for the creation of a separate Union Territory, even as security forces intensify their operations in the region. Sources report that the military has heightened its presence in the so-called buffer zones, with several arrests and searches of village volunteers in the valley areas while there are no report of cracking down the armed Kuki Zo militants.
The KZC’s ongoing push for a Union Territory has drawn significant attention, especially as a series of diplomatic meetings unfold between its representatives and central government officials. These discussions have raised concerns, with some observers pointing to the potential risks posed by armed Kuki militants, which could further destabilize the region and undermine the unity of Manipur.
According to informed sources, the Kuki-Zo Council has privately outlined its activities, detailing its recent tour aimed at garnering support. The second phase of this tour began on January 9, 2025, following the completion of the first stage in Shillong and Kangpokpi in December 2024. During this phase, KZC leaders held several important meetings across different locations.
On January 10, the KZC met with Hmar Biel CSO leaders in Parbung. The gathering was attended by representatives from Hmar Inpui, ITAC, HYA, HSA, and HWA. After the meeting, the KZC delegates and Hmar leaders shared a meal together. On January 11, the council engaged with KNO and UPF leaders in Aizawl, where the focus was on mutual support.
On January 12, KZC representatives met with Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma at his residence. The meeting lasted for an hour and a half, during which the KZC Chairman provided an update on the council’s activities and plans. The following day, January 13, KZC Chairman held a meeting with CYMA leaders to discuss the formation and objectives of the Kuki-Zo Council.
The tour continued on January 14 and 15, when KZC leaders met with retired bureaucrats in New Delhi to gather insights and recommendations regarding the ongoing conflict in Manipur. On January 16, KZC representatives met with Kuki-Zo MLAs in New Delhi to discuss possible courses of action. Later that evening, KZC delegates engaged with Delhi-based CSO leaders to update them on the council’s activities.
On January 17, KZC representatives had a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi, where they urged the MHA to initiate a political dialogue aimed at resolving the Manipur conflict. According to sources, MHA officials set out the necessary preconditions for such a dialogue to take place. The same day, KZC leaders met with high-ranking army officials to review the discussions with the MHA.
On January 18, a scheduled press conference at the Press Club of India was canceled due to pressure from senior government officials. Meanwhile, on January 19, KZC leaders met with their respective tribal communities in Delhi to provide updates and strengthen support for their cause.
On January 20, KZC leaders met with Nagaland’s political leaders to discuss the ongoing situation in Manipur and exchange views on potential solutions. The following day, KZC delegates held a meeting with COTU and UPF leaders in Kangpokpi, where they shared updates on the meetings held thus far and discussed ways to collaborate moving forward.
