The Lost Opportunity for a Civil Movement

The movement began as a tribal people’s movement but later became a political movement focused on the Zo ethnic groups. At that stage, the Nagas withdrew, as it was no longer a general tribal issue but a Zo-specific political demand.

It then became a true people’s movement of all Zo ethnic groups worldwide—internationally, nationally, and locally in Manipur. During this rare moment, if civil leaders had formed a strong, united political platform, the civil bodies could have been the main stakeholders and negotiators with the Centre.

However, unity never materialised. Civil groups failed to build a cohesive platform, so the process reverted to the UPF/KNO as the recognised negotiating entities. A people-led movement thus lost the chance to become a civilian-led political negotiation—a historic lost opportunity.

But there is still hope: with renewed unity, organisation, and strategic civil leadership, the Zo civil bodies can regain influence and play a meaningful role in shaping the future.

@Pakhum

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