Union Territory for Kuki-Zo Should Be a Key Standpoint for Kuki MLAs in Upcoming Peace Talks: Kuki SoO Groups

The Kuki National Organization (KNO) and the United People’s Front (UPF) have issued a statement regarding the proposed talks scheduled for October 15 in Delhi, which will involve Kuki, Meitei, and Naga MLAs under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

In their announcement, the KNO and UPF expressed a serious consideration of the talks initiated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, aimed at fostering dialogue among the involved parties. However, they emphasized the need for Kuki MLAs to attend the meeting as it was an initiative of the central government. Though the government may talk of peace for Manipur state, there should be a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo for peace to return. This should be the steadfast standpoint of the Kuki MLAs in the meeting, the groups informed.

The groups urged the general public to understand their issue, stressing that while they support for Kuki MLAs to attend the meeting, they will not engage in discussions with Meitei MLAs without prior consultation with Kuki civil society organizations (CSOs) and the general public. They asserted that any meeting between Kuki and Meitei MLAs is unacceptable unless the concerns of the Kuki public are adequately addressed.

Related | Meitei, Kuki, and Naga MLAs to Hold Talks in Delhi on October 15

KNO and UPF reiterated that Kuki MLAs will attend the talks only at the invitation of the Ministry of Home Affairs but will not participate in direct discussions with their Meitei counterparts. They warned against making unfounded allegations about their representatives' involvement and promised that Kuki-Zo MLAs will hold a press conference following the talks to inform the public of any significant outcomes.