KIM insists the deal promises a “political settlement” under the Constitution, not a vague “solution for lasting peace” as PIB suggested.
BY PC Bureau
September. 8, 2025: The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and its federating bodies have expressed strong objections to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ (MHA) release through the Press Information Bureau (PIB) regarding the September 4 tripartite Suspension of Operation (SoO) extension signed with the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF).
In a joint meeting held on September 7 at the KIM Secretariat, representatives from KIM, Kuki Inpi Churachandpur, Kuki Women’s Union, Kuki Students’ Organisation, Kuki Chief Association and others said the PIB statement did not reflect the true content of the agreement and had caused “serious misrepresentation.”
Key Points Raised by KIM and Federating Bodies:
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On Political Settlement:
The groups emphasised that the agreement clearly stated the SoO would be followed by “tripartite dialogue with KNO and UPF to pave the way for a negotiated political settlement under the Constitution of India in a time-bound manner.” They alleged the PIB’s version—phrased as “a negotiated solution to bring lasting peace in Manipur”—diluted the Kuki-Zo demand for a Union Territory, which has already been submitted in writing to the MHA. -
On National Highway-02:
The PIB release stated that the Kuki-Zo Council had agreed to open NH-02 for free movement of goods and vehicles. However, KIM clarified that the highway was never closed. Their appeal was limited to cooperation from Kangpokpi residents to central security forces ensuring safe passage, while buffer zones separating Meitei and Kuki-Zo areas would remain strictly respected. - Press Release: KUkiinpi-sep8
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On Territorial Integrity Clause:
The meeting reiterated that the Kuki-Zo position since May 3, 2023, was for separation from Manipur and that acceptance of the “territorial integrity” clause in the SoO was not an endorsement of Manipur’s present boundaries. Leaders said their charter of demands submitted earlier makes this clear. -
On Community Events:
The groups also discussed the earlier resolution on the Wall of Remembrance and dummy coffins, saying their placement and removal had been guided by respect for martyrs and practical considerations. -
On PM Modi’s Visit:
The meeting noted the Prime Minister’s upcoming September 13 visit to Manipur, stressing that the Kuki-Zo community expected acknowledgement of their suffering since May 2023 and genuine steps toward a political solution.
The joint statement concluded by urging the MHA to issue a clarification correcting the discrepancies between the signed agreement and the PIB release, to avoid further mistrust.
