Buffer Zone is to be respected at all cost: KZC Urgent Notice to Meiteis

Strongly condemning any attempts to twist or misrepresentation of its earlier statement on NH-02, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has stated that Buffer Zone between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zos should be respected at all cost.

The Kuki-Zo apex body on Monday (15 September, 2025) issued an urgent clarification to the Meitei public regarding false claims and misinterpretations of its recent statement on National Highway NH-02 (Imphal to Dimapur).

"Such deliberate distortion creates unnecessary confusion and mistrust at a sensitive time," it said.

KZC reiterated its non-declaration of reopening of NH-02, and has not permitted free movement on that route.

"Our request was only to the people of Kangpokpi to extend cooperation to the security forces, as directed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in maintaining safety of commuters along NH-02."

"As there is still no settlement or agreement to the conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, no one from either side must cross the Buffer Zone under any circumstances," KZC added.

The Kuki-Zo Council warned that any violation/breaching of the Buffer Zone would only lead to serious consequences and further deterioration of peace and security.

The Council urged the Meitei public to take note of the facts and act with utmost responsibility.