Kuki-Zo Council Condemns Buffer Zone Escalation, Seeks UT Status

Lamka, November 22, 2025 — The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has expressed deep concern over a fresh escalation near the Torbung–Kangvai Buffer Zone on Sunday evening, following an incident involving Meitei internally displaced persons (IDPs) protesting the Sangai Festival. According to the KZC, the group attempted to forcefully move toward Churachandpur, violating existing restrictions in the area.

The Council stated that the coordinated movement of protesters onto the highway prompted Central Forces to fire teargas and smoke shells to prevent what they described as a "dangerous breach" of the buffer line. The KZC said this incident reflects a recurring pattern of provocation and intimidation from certain Meitei groups, even as the Kuki-Zo community continues to maintain restraint and peaceful conduct.

The Council emphasized that "Manipur cannot return to normalcy when one community breaks peace and the other is forced to live in constant defensive vigilance."

According to the KZC, the Kuki-Zo people have safeguarded their boundaries and maintained peace on their side for more than two and a half years, despite repeated destabilizing attempts from the valley. The Council stated that coexistence under a single administrative system is becoming increasingly unviable.

In its statement, the Kuki-Zo community:

1. Reaffirmed its commitment to peace and lawful conduct.

2. Condemned all attempts to provoke conflict.

3. Called upon the Government of India to ensure constitutional protection through the creation of a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo people.

The Council further asserted that a Union Territory with safeguards is no longer just a political aspiration but a critical security requirement for lasting peace and stability. It argued that only constitutional separation can protect their people, who have faced displacement, violence, and targeted aggression since the conflict began.

The KZC urged the Central government to take decisive steps to protect lives and prevent Manipur from sliding back into further conflict. The press release was issued by Ginza Vualzong, Secretary of Information & Publicity, Kuki-Zo Council.

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