CoTU Reaffirms Stand on Kuki-Zo Interests, Urges Unity Amidst Ongoing Turmoil

Kangpokpi, 29 June 2025 --- The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, has issued a media release on 29th June 2025 reiterating its firm commitment to the interests of the Kuki-Zo community. CoTU, along with Kuki Inpi and other civil society organizations, declared that there will be no compromise on the collective political aspirations and protection of the Kuki-Zo people.

The statement reflected on the events following the violence that broke out in Manipur on 3rd May 2023. It alleged that Meitei aggressors, supported by the state, targeted and displaced Kuki-Zo villagers. CoTU condemned these actions and praised the resilience and sacrifices of local volunteers who defended their communities.

The release highlighted three key points:

1. Rejection of Centre's Security Forces – CoTU alleged that the deployment of central security forces in Sadar Hills appeared biased and aimed at undermining the Kuki-Zo defense lines. They stated that any move to weaken the self-defence structures would not be tolerated.

2. Condemnation of NIA/CBI Actions – The organisation expressed strong objections to recent actions by national investigative agencies like the NIA and CBI. CoTU described these actions as targeting and labelling Kuki-Zo individuals as traitors, which it claimed were unjustified and unacceptable.

3. Call for Unwavering Unity – CoTU urged the Kuki-Zo people not to be misled by divisive elements and called for unity. They warned against any attempt to dilute the larger cause and encouraged collective focus on their political goals and community protection.

Concluding the release, CoTU appealed to all individuals, especially those in leadership roles, not to engage in separate dialogues with the government that might jeopardize the collective struggle. They emphasized that any such actions could lead to severe consequences and division within the community.

The statement was issued by the Department of Information, Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), and dated 29th June 2025.

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