Kuki-Zo Council Responds to Claims of Non-Existence and Denunciation by Manipur Government

The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has issued a formal statement responding to recent allegations questioning its authenticity and existence. A press release from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), dated December 18, 2024, which circulated widely on social media and was later picked up by mainstream media, has challenged the legitimacy of the KZC, denouncing its activities.

Initially, the KZC regarded the DIPR press release as fake due to its lack of a signatory and the absence of an official designation. However, with the press release now being carried by major media outlets, the Council has found it necessary to address the issue publicly.

Founded on October 11, 2024, in Lamka after extensive deliberations, the KZC officially began its operations as a governing body for Kuki-Zo cognate tribes. Its first General Body Meeting was held on December 8, 2024, at S. Molnom village, Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi. The Council was formed as a political platform to represent the shared interests of the Kuki-Zo community and to advocate for their collective well-being and progress.

The Kuki-Zo Council is composed of all tribe presidents, three additional members of the Governing Council, and three representatives from district frontal organizations. A Cabinet, nominated by constituent members, handles the day-to-day management of the Council. This structure is designed to ensure that the KZC remains inclusive and serves as the sole authoritative body for the Kuki-Zo civil society.

The KZC also criticized the investigation by the Meitei-led Manipur Government, which concluded that the KZC does not exist in the state. The Council argued that the government's statement was biased and flawed, asserting that the location of Lamka as the headquarters of the KZC is not in question, especially given that other regions in Manipur have been renamed without objection.

Further, the Kuki-Zo Council condemned the actions of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s government for what it called a dictatorial stance aimed at suppressing the Kuki-Zo people's voice. The Council expressed concern that the state government was attempting to control the media by labeling KZC press releases as unauthorized and urging national and local outlets to disregard them. The KZC described this as an attempt to undermine democratic principles and suppress dissent, particularly by challenging the role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy.

In a final statement, KZC’s Secretary Information, Khaikhohauh Gangte, urged both local and national media to resist attempts to delegitimize the KZC and to uphold the democratic values of free expression.