Imphal: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has delivered a sharp rebuke against the Federations of Civil Society’s (FOC) intent to conduct a march into Kuki-Zo dominated hill districts, labeling the planned action a “blatant breach” of existing buffer zones. These buffer zones, according to CoTU, serve as vital safeguards against aggression from what they identify as “secessionist Meitei militias,” and any infringement upon them threatens to escalate regional hostilities.
Further intensifying the political divide, Kuki-Zo leadership has rejected the “free movement” proposal advocated by Home Minister Amit Shah and relayed by the Manipur Governor. The committee dismissed this proposal as a distortion of the situation on the ground, designed to reinforce “radical Meitei narratives.”
In response to allegations of obstructing essential supplies along National Highway 2, which traverses Kuki-Zo territories, the tribal committee categorically denied any deliberate blockage. They attributed any temporary disruptions to efforts aimed at highlighting the perceived lack of reciprocal humanitarian action from the valley regions.
The CoTU characterized the FOC’s planned march as a “dangerous provocation,” imploring the Governor to resist yielding to what they perceive as the “majoritarian Meitei narrative” and its “secessionist ambitions.”
The statement concluded with a firm reaffirmation of the Kuki-Zo community’s demand for separate administration under Article 239A of the Constitution, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures to safeguard India’s northeastern frontier.
Read More: Manipur Arms Surrender Yields Over 1,000 Weapons as Deadline Closes