Kuki-Zo Council Reiterates Demand for Separate Administration, Alleges Discrimination in Government Response

The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has alleged that the Kuki-Zo community continues to face violence and discrimination in Manipur, while claiming that the government’s response has been marked by unequal treatment and selective action.

In a statement, the council said that since May 3, 2023, more than 250 Kuki-Zo people have lost their lives in violence linked to the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state. It also claimed that over 40,000 people were displaced after homes and places of worship were destroyed in the Imphal Valley.

The KZC further alleged that since March 2026, at least 32 Kuki-Zo civilians have been killed in incidents attributed to NSCN-IM and ZUF(K), while several villages were reportedly set on fire.

The council criticised what it described as a disparity in accountability and law enforcement. According to the KZC, incidents involving Meitei or Naga civilians have prompted swift government action, while violence against Kuki-Zo civilians has not received a similar response.

Referring to the recent killing of three Meitei civilians, the council claimed that one of its Suspension of Operations (SoO) camps was taken over by security forces despite there being no established link between the camp and the incident. At the same time, it questioned why NSCN-IM was allegedly allowed to operate despite accusations of involvement in attacks on Kuki-Zo civilians.

The organisation said such actions had raised concerns about the government’s neutrality and commitment to ensuring equal justice for all communities.

The KZC reiterated its long-standing demand for a Separate Administration in the form of a Union Territory with a Legislature. According to the council, the demand is essential for ensuring the security, identity and political rights of the Kuki-Zo people.

The organisation stated that the demand goes beyond political aspirations and is tied to the community’s survival, safety and ability to govern its own affairs.

The council warned that if the government fails to take concrete measures to ensure security, justice and meaningful political dialogue, it may consider stronger political steps. These could include urging Kuki-Zo MLAs to withdraw from participation in the Manipur government and asking SoO groups to review their cooperation with the authorities.

The KZC concluded by asserting that the Kuki-Zo people seek a lasting political solution that guarantees security, protects their identity and ensures a life of dignity and self-governance.