KYO Urges Caution on Free Movement, Buffer Zone

Lamka, August 9, 2026: The Kuki Youth Organization (KYO) has called for a responsible approach to free movement along national highways and the protection of the existing buffer zone amid recent developments in Manipur.

In a statement dated August 8, KYO said it had taken serious note of the recent visit of Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to Kangpokpi and the announcement concerning free movement along the national highways.

KYO appealed to Kuki leaders, civil society organisations and the public to carefully consider the ground realities before making or supporting statements on unrestricted movement. It said any decision involving movement between conflict-affected areas must take into account the prevailing security situation, concerns of affected communities and civilian protection.

The organisation referred to the suffering endured by the Kuki community over the past three years, including loss of lives, destruction of homes, displacement and allegations of violence against women. It said the experiences of affected families should remain central to discussions on peace and movement.

KYO urged community leaders to avoid unilateral assurances that could create confusion or put civilians at risk. It also appealed to individuals and organisations not to disregard established security arrangements or cross buffer or sensitive areas without proper authorisation and adequate security arrangements.

At the same time, KYO said any violation of the buffer arrangement or attempts to provoke confrontation should be addressed through responsible authorities and lawful mechanisms. It appealed to the Meitei, Kuki and Tangkhul communities to respect existing security arrangements and avoid actions that could reignite tensions.

The organisation further urged leaders to remain vigilant and carefully assess political developments and approaches by different communities, keeping the long-term security, dignity, rights and future of the Kuki people in consideration.

“Peace must not mean forgetting the past, and free movement must not come at the cost of civilian safety,” KYO said, stressing that meaningful progress requires mutual respect, security, accountability and genuine confidence-building among affected communities.

KYO called upon the Kuki people to remain calm, united, informed and responsible, advocating awareness, lawful action and collective responsibility over confrontation.