Kuki-Zo Council meets MHA officials, calls for urgent political dialogue on Manipur crisis

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 17, 2025

In a significant development, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the apex political body representing the Kuki-Zo community, held its first-ever meeting with officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) at Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi on Friday.

The MHA was represented by A.K. Mishra, interlocutor, and Rajesh Kamble, Joint Director of IB (Northeast), while the KZC delegation included Chairman Pu Henlianthang Thanglet, Coordinator Pu Ajang Khongsai, Finance Secretary Pu Richard Hmar, and Spokesperson Pu Ginza Vualzong.

During the meeting, KZC leaders formally introduced their organization, outlining its structure, objectives, and demands. They underscored the urgent need for a political dialogue to resolve the ongoing crisis in Manipur, urging the Indian government to initiate talks without delay.

The Council reiterated that its demand for a Union Territory under Article 239A of the Indian Constitution aligns with the memorandum submitted by Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF).

MHA officials acknowledged the concerns raised but emphasized that peace must be restored before a political solution can be pursued. In response, KZC delegates asserted that the cessation of violence must be mutual and urged the government to ensure that the Meitei community refrains from attacking Kuki-Zo settlements.

The discussions, which lasted for over one and a half hours, covered various aspects of the ongoing conflict, with both sides agreeing to continue engagement for a peaceful and lasting resolution.

This meeting marks a crucial step in the Kuki-Zo community’s efforts to secure political recognition and stability in Manipur, as pressure builds for the Indian government to act decisively on the issue.