ZUF Reaffirms Stand on Ancestral Land and Rights

The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has issued a press communiqué expressing concern over what it described as challenges affecting the Zeliangrong people and their ancestral homeland. The organisation called on civil society organisations, political leaders and individuals to act responsibly and avoid taking unilateral decisions on matters relating to the community's interests.

In its statement on 9 July 2026, ZUF reiterated its position that issues concerning alleged illegal immigration, land encroachment and the protection of ancestral land, identity, culture and customary rights should be addressed through lawful and constitutional means. It also warned against what it described as illegal settlement in Zeliangrong ancestral areas and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the community's territorial rights.

The organisation also rejected an apology previously issued by Kuki-Zo leaders regarding the use of the term "Kacha Naga" and referred to past incidents of violence involving members of the Zeliangrong community. It stated that those responsible for such acts should be held accountable.

Concluding its statement, ZUF reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the dignity, identity, natural resources and territorial integrity of the Zeliangrong people, while maintaining that their ancestral land and customary rights are non-negotiable.