Kuki-Zo Council Leaders Meet MHA Officials, Reiterate Demand for Separate Administration to Achieve Lasting Peace

In a crucial meeting with officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi on Friday, leaders of the Kuki Zo Council (KZC) reiterated their demand for the creation of a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo community to ensure lasting peace in the region.

The Kuki Zo Council, representing various tribes under the Kuki Zo umbrella, was led by Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet, along with other key members, including Coordinator Ch Ajang Khongsai, Spokesperson Ginza Vualzong, and Finance Secretary Richard Hmar.

During the meeting, the KZC leadership emphasized the urgency of materializing their political demand for a separate administration as the best path forward for resolving the ongoing conflicts and establishing long-term peace in Manipur. They urged the MHA to prioritize and expedite the realization of this demand.

Responding to the KZC’s plea, MHA officials, including Advisor AK Mishra and Joint Director (Northeast) of the Intelligence Bureau Rajesh Kamble, called for a focus on maintaining peace before seeking a permanent solution. However, the KZC leaders countered that only the creation of a separate administration would ensure lasting peace, arguing that such a move would be the most effective way to address the political and security challenges faced by the Kuki-Zo community.

The meeting, which lasted for over an hour and a half, saw discussions on various aspects of the ongoing situation in Manipur. The KZC delegates stressed the importance of swift political dialogue, urging the government to initiate talks as soon as possible to find a resolution. They also pointed out that their demand aligns with the Kuki National Organization (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF)’s call for a Union Territory under Article 239A of the Indian Constitution.

In a significant development, the Kuki Zo Council has announced that they will hold a press conference at the Press Club of India in New Delhi on Saturday to further address their demands and concerns regarding the political situation in Manipur.

The meeting with the MHA officials marks the first formal engagement between the Kuki-Zo Council and the Government of India, with hopes for a constructive dialogue moving forward.