Kuki-Zo Leadership Reviews Peace Talks, Discusses Camp Relocation

In a firm stance, the Kuki-Zo leadership reiterated that coexistence with the Meitei community is no longer possible, adding that substantial issues raised by the Ministry of Home Affairs would be addressed only when formal discussions on their political demands begin. The talks with the MHA were described as “moving in the right direction.”

BY PC Bureau

June 19 — Senior Kuki-Zo leaders, including MLAs, civil society organizations, and representatives of the two umbrella groups under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement—the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United People’s Front (UPF)—held a crucial meeting in Kangpokpi on Thursday  to assess the progress made in peace talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

The meeting was attended by five Kuki-Zo MLAs: Haokholet Kipgen (Saitu), Nemcha Kipgen (Kangpokpi), Paolienlal Haokip (Saikot), and Letzamang Haokip (Henglep)—all from the BJP—and Chinlunthang (Singhat) of the Kuki People’s Alliance. One of the primary agenda points was the recent MHA proposal regarding the consolidation and relocation of SoO camps.

The attendees deliberated on a counterproposal submitted by the SoO representatives, which emphasizes the security of Kuki-Zo populations during any relocation process. Sources indicated that the majority of participants expressed satisfaction with the direction of the ongoing talks and welcomed the government’s willingness to engage.

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However, on the contentious issue of reopening national highways to facilitate unrestricted movement across Manipur, the meeting concluded that such steps could only be considered once political discussions—including the Kuki-Zo demand for Union Territory status—begin in earnest.

“We firmly believe that there’s no going back. Coexistence with the Meitei community is no longer possible under the present circumstances. Those in power are aware of the situation, and we trust that justice will eventually be served,” a participant in the meeting said.

This latest gathering follows two key rounds of talks held in New Delhi on June 9 and 16, led by MHA Advisor on Northeast Affairs, A.K. Mishra.

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The Kangpokpi review mirrored the significance of the May Guwahati convention, where Kuki-Zo leadership resolved that all future negotiations with the Centre would be conducted through representatives of SoO groups. Four members each from KNO and UPF took part in the recent Delhi meetings, which focused on ground rules and operational logistics of the SoO camps.

While the MHA has proposed restructuring to enhance coordination and oversight, the Kuki-Zo leadership remains concerned about the safety and demography of areas surrounding the camps. There are currently 14 designated camps—seven under KNO and seven under UPF—spread across Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Tengnoupal districts. Both sides have reportedly agreed to the closure of four camps (two from each group), pending security clearance.

UPF spokesperson Aaron Kipgen  has already clarified that the Delhi discussions were limited to SoO technicalities and did not touch upon political issues or highway access. “Any political dialogue will require a clear commitment from the Government of India,” he has said.