Manipur Govt’s Misstep on Tribal Chieftainship Draws Strong Pushback

THE recent communication from the Manipur Home Department (Dated:24-11-2025), forwarding a request from the Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union (MMMTU) to abolish the long-established tribal chieftainship system, is deeply troubling. Tribal chieftainship in the Kuki-Zo and other hill communities is not a mere administrative post; it is a cultural institution rooted in identity, heritage, and land stewardship. For the Manipur government to even entertain such a proposal—without consultation, consent, or respect for due process—signals a dangerous disregard for the constitutional rights and customary practices of the tribal people. Allowing a community-based Meitei organisation to influence policies concerning the hills exposes the government’s partiality and threatens the fragile peace of the state.

In this tense environment, the Kuki-Zo Council’s prompt and firm stand deserves appreciation. By raising its voice early, the Council has taken up its responsibility to defend the rights and institutions that have guided the tribal communities for generations. Their press release not only highlights the constitutional protections available to the hill tribes but also serves as a reminder that any attempt to undermine tribal autonomy will be met with unified resistance. Such timely intervention helps prevent unilateral actions that could further widen the divide between the valley and hill communities.

It must be underlined that the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) is the rightful guardian of tribal interests in Manipur. Its role is enshrined in law, and the state government cannot bypass it under any circumstance. Any move that attempts to alter, abolish, or redefine tribal chieftainship—without the free, prior, and informed consent of tribal chiefs and the tribal populace—is illegitimate and unconstitutional. Neither the Meiteis nor the Manipur government has the authority to touch the rights of the tribes. Respecting these boundaries is essential for justice, coexistence, and lasting harmony in Manipur.  

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Manipur Home Dept Forwards Meetei Union Request on Chiefs’ Rights Act


No. H-1701/356/2025-HD-HD
GOVERNMENT OF MANIPUR
SECRETARIAT: HOME DEPARTMENT

Imphal, the 24th November, 2025

To

  1. The Secretary (Land Resources), Government of Manipur.

  2. The Director (TA & Hill), Manipur.

Subject: Implementation of “The Manipur Hill Areas (Acquisition of Chiefs’ Rights) Act 1967 and the abolition of the Unconstitutional Hereditary Chieftainship thereof.”

Sir,

In inviting a reference to the above subject, I am directed to enclose herewith a copy of letter No.04/MMTU/Memos/2025 dated 08.11.2025 received from the President MEETEI (MEITEI) Tribe Union (MMTU) Manipur, addressed to Hon’ble Governor of Manipur regarding the above subject and to request you kindly to take up necessary action at the earliest.

Encl: As stated above.

Yours faithfully

Digitally signed by
Heisnam Balkrisna Singh
Date: 24-11-2025 08:32:29
(H. Balkrisna Singh)
Additional Secretary (Home)
Government of Manipur

Copy to:

  1. Secretary to the Governor, Manipur.

  2. Staff Officer to Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur.

  3. P.S. to Commissioner (Home), Government of Manipur.

  4. Salam Gourakishwar Singh, President Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union (MMTU), Manipur.

  5. Guard file.

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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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Report: XV Delhi Khalvontawi Meet 2025

THE Thangkhal Sinlai Pawlpi (Thangkhal Students’ Association), Delhi & NCR Branch, celebrated the XV Delhi Khalvontawi Meet 2025 on Saturday evening, 29 November 2025, at the SSS-I Auditorium, JNU, New Delhi. This year’s theme was “Living Beyond the Hills: Challenges and Opportunities for Thangkhal People in Delhi.”

Thangkhal youths from across Delhi and NCR gathered for the celebration, which began with Ningtui Dawnna (Tea Party). After this, the two MCs—Mr Mangkhanpau @ Paupu Thangkhal and Miss Lhingneihhoih, dressed in traditional attire—took over the stage. 

A gentle and dedicated government hospital nurse, Ms Chingthianmawi, opened the programme with a Scripture reading from Proverbs 9:10 (NRSV): “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” She then offered a humble prayer.

The TSP Anthem, “Nunbang Nuam E” (Living Together is Joyful), written by the late Mr Kapsuanthang (RIP 2013), was then sung by Khalvontawi artistes. Afterwards, the hall observed a one-minute silence for Thangkhal leaders who passed away between 2018 and 29 November 2025. Mentioned among them were:

·         Pastor Kamsuanlal @ T Lalpu, founder president of TSP Manipur & singer of Zomi Fins (RIP 2025)

·         Mr Kapkhankhual, a dedicated and fearless worker active in TPO works (RIP 2025)

·         Mr Thanglunmang, former General Secretary, Joint Secretary and Information Secretary of TSP-GHQ, known as a trendsetter (RIP 2024)

The President of TSP Delhi & NCR, Dr Mangzamuan @ Mangneu Thangkhal, then addressed the gathering warmly. He said that since the beginning, the Khalvontawi Meet was meant for meeting, dining together, strengthening unity and motivating each other. He proudly noted that many members have now risen to positions such as IRS officers, Tax Officers, Assistant Professors and one Associate Professor in Delhi. He urged everyone to “move forward.” Dr Mangneu completed BA (Korean Language), MA, MPhil and PhD from JNU.

After his speech, Ms Rebecca Neikhochiin sang a touching song titled “Khalvontawi.” The MCs then introduced the freshers who arrived in New Delhi between 2018 and 2025.

A senior KV member, Mr Suanliankhup, who came to Delhi as a fresher in 1999, gave advice on “Adapting to City Life: Tips for Freshers in Delhi & NCR.” Drawing from his student life, student union leadership and BPO career, he stressed three important points:

1.      Have a local guardian,

2.      Have church membership, and

3.      Have student body membership.
These, he said, are essential during unexpected situations.

He quoted, “Be a Roman when you are in Rome,” and explained that newcomers must adapt to city life, respect Delhi’s festivals, maintain good relations with friends and landlords, and avoid physical fights. The first person to act is legally considered the wrongdoer, so patience is key. He also reminded everyone to know SPUNER’s helpline number 1093, available 24/7. He encouraged them to prepare mentally and physically for Delhi’s extreme weather and not to compare their small community with larger ones.

His final advice was spiritual: to remember their Creator, hold fast to faith, and work hard. He also mentioned that his father was one of the earliest evangelists and pastors among the Thangkhal people.

Next, Mr Khuplunlal, a hardworking and sincere BPO employee, energized the auditorium with the Zomi Fins song Zogam in Henkol Bul(Zoland is in Chains).

The straightforward speaker Mr Khailianlal, known for saying “right is right and wrong is wrong,” spoke on “Govt. Services Exam: Making the Most of What Delhi Offers.” He reminded students that Delhi has everything—markets, hospitals, coaching centres—right at their doorstep. He shared how he studied outdated syllabi in the Northeast while his peers in Delhi used updated, market-aligned materials. He urged everyone to take full advantage of Delhi’s resources to succeed in government service exams.

A young PhD scholar, Dr Jangkholam, who rose from a Thangkhal village and overcame many hardships—including the Manipur violence—shared on “Careers in Academia: Preparing for a Life of Learning and Teaching.” He warned students not to follow the wrong path.

He said every student in Delhi has a purpose, and their aims must be real, not vague. The most important thing, he said, is to work towards the good tasks they know they must achieve.

He spoke of facing 6–7 interviews in Delhi, where the first question was always: “Please introduce yourself.” Though simple, the question has many layers. As he was not a fluent speaker, he wrote a 1–2 page script, memorized it and practiced it often. The first impression given through this question reflects one’s personality and capability.

Dr Jangkholam recently earned his PhD from Manipur University and now teaches as an Assistant Professor at Jesus and Mary College (University of Delhi). He advised the gathering to know themselves and choose their path wisely.

A senior nurse, Ms Chingbawi, then sang “Unau Khat (Same Sibling).” Though a technical issue occurred when the cordless mic battery ran low, she still performed well.

Another senior BPO employee, Mr Jacob Khupliankap, spoke on “Beyond Agent: Long-Term Career in the BPO Industry.” He advised employees not to jump from company to company too quickly. Instead, they should stay long enough to learn, master the process, understand their job and their clients, and deliver results. He reminded everyone that their job is the source of income for their family, so they must work honestly and remember God.

Mr Khuplunlal returned to the stage to sing the Zomi song “Tuan a Pupa I Zogam Nuam” (The Blissful Zoland of Our Ancestors).

A soft-spoken speaker with an MCom background, Mr Ginmuanlal, then gave a detailed and eye-opening talk on “Financial Wisdom: How to Manage Money Wisely.” He thanked the organisers for choosing such an important topic. He explained the sources and uses of money, how to control unnecessary expenses, and how savings can grow into major financial assets.

He illustrated this idea with easy-to-understand examples.
If a person consumes 15 Shikhar at Rs 40 each, the total money spent becomes:

·         Rs 600 per month

·         Rs 1,50,000 per year

·         Rs 3,40,000 in 25 years

·         Rs 7,50,000 in 30 years

·         Rs 16,10,000 in 35 years

This shows how a small monthly expense becomes a very big amount over many years.

He also listed similar long-term spending patterns for:

·         Cigarettes

·         Khuva (chewing paan)

·         Nekteih (snacks/eatables)

·         Outings (restaurants)

 

When asked “What can we buy with these figures?” he answered clearly:
Land, flats in metro cities, business/start-up capital, retirement income, passive income, four-wheelers, higher education (medical, engineering, management), foreign university studies, seminary studies in the US, marriage expenses, charity, donations, mission support, shopping, travelling and holidays.

 

He also explained investment categories:

·         Very short term (0–1 year)

·         Short term (1–2 years)

·         Medium term (3–5 years)

·         Long term (6+ years)

He advised that people should buy houses or land only if the cost is within 10% of their capital, otherwise the financial strain is too heavy.

“Limited money has unlimited applications,” he said. “If uncontrolled, it leads to debt traps.”
He currently teaches in the Commerce Department of Maitreyi College, University of Delhi.

The topic was new and inspiring for many, especially regarding saving and investment for a better future.

Towards the end, Mr Alex Hangminlian, Secretary of TSP Delhi & NCR, presented the secretarial report. He shared how TSP-DNCR provided financial support to some families affected by the Manipur violence, to the Thangkhal Elite Force (under CDVF), and to KV members in need. The event budget was Rs 70,000/-, but thanks to cheerful givers, they received more. The secretary also reported that TSP-DNCR has participated in every Zomi frontal event in Delhi to the best of its capacity.

TSP Delhi & NCR then presented appreciation mementos to members who inspired the community:

·         Miss Kimlamching and Mr Robert Hangsuantung, for clearing the SSC CPO Final Exam 2024 and joining CISF as Sub-Inspectors

·         Miss Manhoihnuam, for clearing NORCET-VII 2024 and being appointed Nursing Officer in AIIMS Nagpur


Mementoes were given away by Mr. Suanliankhup.

The organisation wished them God’s blessings and encouraged them to serve the country and the Thangkhal people faithfully.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr Langminlian, Joint Secretary, followed by a closing prayer from Mr S. Hanglamthang.

Afterwards, everyone was busy taking photos. A group photo was taken, though some people were missing because they were preparing the grand feast. Most dishes were cooked in traditional style. Once ready, everyone enjoyed the sumptuous dinner.

The following teams worked behind the scenes:

Ushers: Mr Pausianlal, Mr Seiminthang, Mr Liantungthang, Miss Sungii, Miss Nianglamson & Miss Chiindeihkim

Sound System: Mr Lawrence, Mr William, Mr Khupgoulun & Mr Mangbawi.

Mess Leaders (Tuanvai): Mr Jangminlun, Mr Moses Chinmuanlal & Mr Daltanlian

Artistes: Mr Khuplunlal, Ms Rebecca Neikhochiin, Mr Sianpu & Ms Chingbawi

Receptionists: Mr Langminlal, Mr Douminthang, Miss Judith Muankim & Miss Chingdeikim

Media & Recording: Mr Bruce K. Thangkhal

The eldest couple present were Ginsuanhang (71) and Vumngaihniang (64), who were in Delhi for medical treatment. Mr Ginsuanhang, a Mission Board member in his local church, recalled that in the 1980s, very few Thangkhal people were educated, and none studied theology or nursing. Today, he said, God’s blessings are visible as the younger generation grows forward.

Ms Vumngaihniang added, “I never dreamed that so many KV youths would be in Delhi. Though they are young, they handled everything with maturity.”

Today, from humble beginnings, God has raised many Khalvontawis: three PhDs from JNU, one PhD in Architecture from a Japanese university (now an Associate Professor), Tax Officers, Banking professionals, Sub-Inspectors, Nurses in government hospitals, missionaries, social workers, students of theology, and many working in the private sector.

Every year, between January and March, the Thangkhal community also holds a one-day fasting prayer, in their homeland.

With grateful hearts, the event ended by giving thanks to God for bringing the community this far.

~ Khalvontawi News

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31st Kuki Inpi Manipur General Assembly 2025 cum Election


The 31st Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) General Assembly cum Election, with the theme “Come, let us reason together,” will take place at Hengbung Village in Kangpokpi District from 1st to 4th December 2025. The event aims to bring the community together for open dialogue, unity, and collective decision-making.
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TSP Delhi & NCR Branch Executives 2023-25

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Thangkhal Sinlai Pawlpi Delhi Holds XV Delhi Khalvontawi Meet 2025 | Photo

Thangkhal Sinlai Pawlpi (Thangkhal Students' Association), Delhi & NCR Branch, celebrated the 15th Delhi Khalvontawi Meet 2025 at the SSS-I Auditorium, JNU, New Delhi, on Saturday, 29 November 2025, from 2 PM to 6 PM.

The programme was held under the theme, “Living Beyond the Hills: Challenges and Opportunities for Thangkhal People in Delhi.”

Mr. Suanliankhup spoke on “Adapting to City Life: Tips for Freshers in Delhi & NCR.”

Mr. Khailianlal presented “Govt. Services Exam: Making the Most of What Delhi Offers.”

Dr. Jangkholam shared insights on “Careers in Academia: Preparing for a Life of Learning and Teaching.”

Mr. Jacob Khupliankap highlighted “Beyond Agent: Long-Term Career in the BPO Industry.”

Mr. Ginmuanlal delivered a talk on “Financial Wisdom: How to Manage Money Wisely.”

Khalvontawi artistes also captivated the audience with their soulful songs.

A sumptuous dinner was served, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.

Detailed reports will be updated soon.

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