Despite warnings from security forces and opposition from Kuki-Zo groups, the Federation of Civil Society Organizations (FOCS) remains firm in its decision to march towards the hills. The move has ignited fresh concerns over ethnic tensions in the region.
BY PC Bureau
The Federation of Civil Society Organizations (FOCS) has announced that it will go ahead with its planned ‘March to the Hills’ on March 8, despite security concerns and warnings from the Manipur government and law enforcement agencies.
The administration is unlikely to give them permission to go ahead with their plan, sources said.
In a video statement, FOCS President reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the march, citing Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive on free movement from March 8. The group plans to begin the march from Imphal to Senapati, with an eventual destination at Mao Gate.
The announcement comes amid strong opposition from Kuki-Zo groups and warnings from security agencies about potential violence. Sources indicate that the Manipur administration, in consultation with law enforcement, has urged FOCS to call off the march, warning that it could escalate tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
Security Concerns and Government Response
Officials have expressed concerns that a Meitei-led march into Kuki-Zo-dominated areas could spark fresh clashes. Intelligence reports suggest that the march could lead to direct confrontations, prompting the Assam Rifles to intervene and urge authorities to prevent the event from taking place.
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On February 5, top officials from the Assam Rifles held high-level discussions with Kuki-Zo Council representatives and insurgent groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. During the meeting, the Inspector General of Assam Rifles reportedly assured Kuki-Zo leaders that security forces would not allow the march to proceed and would take strict measures to prevent any violations.
Kuki-Zo Groups Condemn the March
Several Kuki-Zo organizations have strongly opposed the march, describing it as a provocative move aimed at asserting Meitei dominance over tribal territories. Some groups have labeled the march an “invasion of the hills” and warned of serious consequences if it proceeds.
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A statement from the Young Kuki group condemned the event as a “blatant display of Meitei fascism”, accusing FOCS of using the pretext of peace to intimidate tribal populations.
The Kuki-Zo Council also issued a statement, rejecting FOCS’s justification for the march and calling for constitutional safeguards to protect their people.
“Peace is not an item on a menu that can be ordered. The Meitei cannot ethnically cleanse us from Kangleipak, the valley, and then attempt to intrude into the hills at will. Peace will only come when security for the Kuki-Zo people is ensured through constitutional safeguards.”
KANAM’s Final Warning
The Kuki Alliance for Nampi Awakening Movement (KANAM) has issued a final warning to FOCS, stating:
“There is no free movement for those responsible for violence against Kuki-Zo people.”
“Every Kuki man and woman is prepared to defend their land.”
“The so-called expedition will not be met with flowers, but with fire.”
New Delhi : PRESS RELEASE
4th March 2025KANAM warns FOCS: Entering Kuki territory is a deliberate provocation. Turn back now or face the consequences. We won't tolerate Meitei-led groups spreading violence and destruction under the guise of a 'Peace Expedition'.@HillsJournal pic.twitter.com/zo9ySfE2Zr
— Wind of Change @ Saikot (@WindofChange202) March 4, 2025
KANAM further accused the Manipur government of failing to protect Kuki-Zo communities, stating that the state no longer holds control over their territories. The group warned that any attempt to cross into Kuki-Zo land would be met with strong resistance.
Tensions Rise Ahead of March 8
While some within the Meitei community support the march, others have suggested that it should be postponed or canceled to avoid escalating the already fragile situation.
With tensions running high, the Manipur administration remains on high alert, deploying additional security forces in sensitive areas. Officials have warned that any provocation or act of violence could derail peace efforts and plunge the state into further unrest.
As the March 8 deadline approaches, all eyes are on whether FOCS will proceed with the march or whether security forces will intervene to prevent potential clashes.
