Kuki-Zo leaders have accused security forces of violating Suspension of Operations ground rules, claiming the attempted entry into the designated camp was carried out without prior coordination or permission.
BY PC Bureau
June 23, 2026: Tension is running high at the Ebenezer Designated Camp in Kangpokpi district as a newly deployed CRPF Cobra unit faces off with Kuki-Z0 organisations and local villagers.
.According to eyewitness accounts and statements from Kuki-Zo leaders, the standoff began when the Cobra team attempted to enter the camp area, which houses militants operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. Kuki-ZO groups strongly opposed the move, terming it a clear violation of the SoO ground rules, which prohibit security forces from entering designated camps without prior permission and coordination.
Local sources report that Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police (SP) reached the spot and was allowed entry by the camp authorities. After being briefed by the Kuki-Zo representatives, the SP returned. However, the CRPF Cobra contingent that arrived from Imphal remains positioned at the periphery of the camp, leading to a tense face-off
.Hundreds of villagers and Kuki-ZO members have gathered in large numbers in support of the camp, raising slogans against what they describe as continued harassment and selective targeting of Kuki civilians.
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Kuki-Zo organisations have linked the current standoff to a larger pattern of alleged discriminatory operations. They claim that while security forces intensify cordon-and-search operations in Kuki-Z0 areas, alleged Naga militant groups responsible for the killing of at least 15 Kuki-Z people and the burning of hundreds of houses in othe last three months remain largely untouched.
The situation remains tense with large crowds still gathered around the Ebenezer camp. Kuki-Zo organisations have appealed to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to intervene and uphold the sanctity of the SoO agreement while addressing the broader issue of selective enforcement of law and order. Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the standoff.
Meanwhile, in a press release , the Kuki Civic Action Committee (KCAC) expressed its “deep anguish and strongest condemnation” over the continued harassment, intimidation, and terrorisation of innocent Kuki civilians under the guise of search and cordon operations.The KCAC statement reads:
“Such actions are unconstitutional, undemocratic, unjust, and fundamentally contrary to the principles of equality and the rule of law enshrined in the Constitution of India. The State is duty-bound to protect all its citizens without discrimination.”
The committee highlighted the wider context of alleged selective targeting:
“At a time when our community is still awaiting justice for the loss of 241 lives, the destruction of more than 400 villages, and the displacement of over 40,000 individuals in the relentless aggressions against our people by both the Meitei and Naga communities, the persistent targeting of Kuki areas and civilians is wholly unacceptable.”
The release further criticised the “continued selective application of law” which, it said, deepens alienation and undermines public confidence in institutions. It pointed out the failure to identify and prosecute those responsible for recent killings and arson while intensifying operations against Kuki civilians.
Appeal to Centre and State
“We therefore call upon the Government of India, the State authorities, and all security agencies to immediately cease any form of harassment, intimidation, or discriminatory treatment of innocent civilians. Security operations, if necessary, must be conducted in a transparent, professional, and impartial manner, strictly adhering to constitutional safeguards and human rights standards.”
The organisation reiterated its “unwavering commitment to peace and justice” and urged authorities to uphold the rule of law “without fear, favour, prejudice, or discrimination.”
The press release was issued by Jacob Lenminthang Thadou, Chief Coordinator, Media and Public Relations Division, Kuki Civic Action Committee (KCAC).
This incident has once again brought to the fore allegations of selective crackdowns on Kuki-Z0 areas even as perpetrators from other groups remain unaddressed. Further updates are awaited as the situation develops.
