Kuki-Zo Council Opposes Chiefs’ Rights Act Activation, Seeks Urgent Action

The Kuki-Zo Council expresses strong objection to the renewed attempts to activate the Manipur Hill Areas (Acquisition of Chiefs’ Rights) Act, 1967. Though enacted decades ago, the Act was never implemented because it would dismantle the traditional chieftainship system and tribal land ownership safeguarded under constitutional protections for the hill peoples. Any move to enforce this Act directly threatens the heritage, autonomy, and identity of the Kuki-Zo community.

On 24 November 2025, a memorandum from the Meetei Tribe Union seeking the abolition of tribal chieftainship was reportedly forwarded by the Home Department of Manipur to relevant authorities for early action. The very notion that a non-tribal organization is proposing fundamental changes to tribal land governance highlights deep disregard for tribal rights. At a time when Manipur remains in a state of conflict and displacement, raising such a destabilizing issue is a deliberate move against the Kuki-Zo and risks further escalation. We urge the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur to intervene urgently and ensure that this matter is not taken forward under present circumstances.

We are equally concerned by the North Eastern Council’s announcement on 27 November 2025 that 2.13 crores has been sanctioned for a Hill Chiefs’ Guest House at Palace Compound, Imphal — a location where Kuki-Zo chiefs and citizens cannot safely enter today. Such decisions show a disconnect from ground realities and do not prioritize the urgent needs of conflict-affected tribal communities. We call upon the NEC to withhold this project until an environment of peace and accessibility is restored.

These developments underscore the continuing marginalization and insecurity faced by the Kuki-Zo in Manipur. Protecting our land, institutions, and rights is non-negotiable. Lasting peace and stability demand a political arrangement that guarantees safety, dignity, and self-governance for the Kuki-Zo people.

We therefore urge the Government of India to expedite political talks and deliver a fair, just, and permanent solution without delay.

Issued by —

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

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