Anglo-Kuki War’s 109th Anniversary: Kuki Inpi Calls for Unity, Unwavering Resistance and Renewed Resolve to Defend Identity

Marking the 109th anniversary of the Anglo-Kuki War of 1917–1919, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of the Kuki tribes, on Saturday called upon the Kuki-Zo people to draw strength from their forefathers’ historic resistance against British colonial rule, asserting that their legacy of courage, sacrifice and defiance remains profoundly relevant amid the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur.

In a presidential message, Kuki Inpi Manipur president Ch. Ajang Khongsai said the anniversary was not merely a remembrance of a historic struggle but a solemn reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to defending its ancestral land, freedom, dignity and identity.

Paying tribute to the warriors who stood firm against colonial domination, Khongsai said their indomitable spirit and sacrifices must continue to guide the present generation in confronting adversity and safeguarding the collective aspirations of the Kuki-Zo people.

The anniversary comes at a critical juncture for the community, which continues to grapple with the devastating consequences of the ethnic conflict in Manipur, including displacement, insecurity and what the KIM described as relentless aggression and atrocities.

“The courage and perseverance of our forefathers remind us that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, a people’s determination to defend their dignity, identity and future must never be extinguished,” Khongsai said, underscoring the need for continued resolve in the pursuit of justice, security and a lasting political solution.

The Anglo-Kuki War of 1917–1919 occupies a defining place in Kuki history as a collective resistance against British colonial authority, particularly the colonial administration’s attempts to impose wartime labour recruitment and exert greater control over Kuki-inhabited areas. The conflict involved resistance across several Kuki territories and became a powerful symbol of the community’s determination to protect its autonomy and way of life.

For the Kuki-Zo people, the historical significance of the war extends beyond armed resistance. It represents a legacy of collective courage, self-determination and sacrifice that continues to shape their political consciousness and identity across generations.

Khongsai urged the community to remain united, resilient and courageous amid the prevailing challenges, calling for an end to internal divisions in the larger interest of the people.

He also appealed to the younger generation to study their history and honour the sacrifices of their forefathers through education, discipline, integrity, leadership and dedicated service to society.

“Their legacy must not merely be remembered; it must inspire us to shoulder our responsibilities and safeguard the future of generations to come,” he said.

Emphasising solidarity and collective responsibility, the KIM president called upon the people to support vulnerable members of the community and rise above differences to protect their shared interests.

As the community commemorates the historic uprising nearly 11 decades later, Khongsai urged the Kuki-Zo people to renew their collective commitment to upholding the legacy of their ancestors with dignity, perseverance and unwavering solidarity.

“Long live the legacy of our heroes!” he declared.