Kuki-Zo Council Urges FNCC to Lift Bandh

Dated: 19th July 2025

Kuki-Zo Council Appeals to FNCC to Lift Indefinite Bandh on Movement of Kuki-Zo People

The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) expresses deep concern and disappointment over the indefinite bandh called by the Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) for the movement of Kuki-Zo people through Naga-inhabited areas in Manipur, which came into effect at midnight on July 18, 2025.

Since the violent outbreak of ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities on 3rd May 2023, the Kuki-Zo people have suffered unimaginable losses and trauma. More than 150 Kuki-Zo individuals were mercilessly killed, over 7,000 homes were reduced to ashes, and more than 360 churches—symbols of our shared Christian faith—were destroyed or desecrated. In the aftermath of such atrocities, our people have been left with no viable option but to seek alternate routes for movement, as transit through Meitei-dominated areas has become unsafe and impossible.

The imposition of the bandh by FNCC further compounds the humanitarian crisis faced by the Kuki-Zo community. It is deeply saddening that, as fellow tribals and Christians, such actions are being undertaken without due consideration of the plight of our people. Blocking the movement of an entire community based on their ethnicity is unconstitutional, inhumane and unchristianly.

The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) earnestly appeals to the Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) to immediately lift the bandh and allow the safe passage of our people through the Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur. We firmly believe that any misunderstandings or grievances can and should be addressed through peaceful dialogue and mutual respect.

In this challenging time, let us not allow division and suspicion to overshadow the bonds of shared faith and struggle. We urge our Naga brothers and sisters of Manipur to extend compassion and solidarity and to walk together with us towards a peaceful and just resolution for both communities.

Issued by:

GINZA VUALZONG

Secretary, Information & Publicity, Kuki-Zo Council (KZC)

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