Imphal: In a significant development impacting inter-community relations in Manipur, the Committee on Protection of Indigenous People’s Ancestral Land (COPIPAL) has declared a complete restriction on the movement of Kukis within the traditional territories of the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme tribes. This sweeping directive, effective from June 2, 2025, stems from a People’s Consultative Meeting convened by the Joint Tribe Council (JTC) in Konsaram village on April 14, 2025.
COPIPAL’s decision follows the April 5 assault on Konsaram Naga, which the committee has unequivocally labelled an “unprovoked and orchestrated act of aggression.” This incident, they assert, gravely compromised the peace and dignity of the Indigenous Naga populace, posing a direct threat to their safety, rights, and distinct cultural identity. The committee’s statement underscored that the ban, while not an easy choice, was deemed essential given the “grave deterioration of peace and coexistence” in the region. The restriction is slated to remain in force until a mutually acceptable resolution is achieved through genuine dialogue and understanding.
In a parallel move, the Regional Naga Council of Manipur (RNCM) has thrown its weight behind COPIPAL’s declaration. Referencing COPIPAL’s May 28, 2025, press release, the RNCM has instructed all Luangrian leaders and frontal organisations to diligently implement and uphold the ban within their respective domains. To ensure a coordinated execution, the RNSOM, in collaboration with the RNYOM, has been tasked with overseeing efforts across all relevant units. Both COPIPAL and RNCM have underscored the paramount need for united tribal vigilance and solidarity, while simultaneously reaffirming their commitment to peaceful resistance and the lawful assertion of Indigenous rights.
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