Kuki Leaders’ Summit in Shillong Calls for Union Territory as Sole Solution to Manipur Violence

The Kuki leaders’ summit held in Shillong from August 14-17 has once again underscored that the only viable solution to the ongoing violence in Manipur is the establishment of a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo people. The three-day summit brought together various leaders and representatives from Kuki civil society organizations (CSOs) to deliberate on key issues affecting the Kuki community.

Notable resolutions from the summit include:

Rejection of Individual Negotiations: The leaders condemned any attempts by individuals to negotiate peace with the Manipur government independently. Such actions, they warned, would be deemed personal and not in the community's interest. Those engaging in unauthorized dialogues will face social boycott, and any involved organizations will be dissolved.

Support for Kuki-Zo Council: The summit affirmed support for the recently formed Kuki-Zo Council, which was established on July 29, 2024, in Lamka. Leaders expressed backing for the creation of a shadow government to support the council’s executives in advancing the political aspirations of the Kuki-Zo people.

Opposition to NRC Implementation: The Kuki leaders reiterated their stance on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur, insisting that if NRC is to be implemented, it should be overseen by a neutral body or the Supreme Court. They firmly oppose any NRC process conducted under the Manipur state government.

Rejection of State Compensation: The leaders declared that the Kuki people will not accept any form of compensation from the state government. They urged those who have already accepted compensation or are involved in the construction of pre-fabricated houses to cease such activities immediately, with severe consequences for future violations.

Regulation of New Organizations: It was announced that no new groups or organizations should be formed without the consent of the Kuki Inpi. Any such groups established without official approval will not be recognized as legitimate representatives of the Kuki community.

The Kuki leaders reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing a political solution and emphasized that any deviation from this course would undermine their collective efforts and goals.