COPIPAL Suspends Ban on Movement of Kuki-Zo in Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme-Inhabited Areas

The Committee on Protection of Indigenous Peoples’ Ancestral Land (COPIPAL) has temporarily suspended the ban imposed on the movement of Kukis in all territories under the Joint Tribe Council (Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme).

Prior to the suspension of the ban, villagers of Makhan stopped a convoy of Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) leaders at Makhan. The KSO delegates, who were returning after attending the KSO General Assembly at Leimakhong, were prevented by the villagers from proceeding further.

As seen in videos shared on social media, the villagers and KSO leaders were seen exchanging words in an attempt to reach an understanding, with no untoward incidents reported.

Amidst the discussion between the KSO leaders and the villagers, COPIPAL issued a statement saying:
"With the intervention of the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Joint Tribes Council (JTC) in connection with the complete ban on the movement of Kukis in all Joint Tribes territories, the office of COPIPAL has resolved to suspend the ban for some time in the best interest of maintaining peace in the state."

Following COPIPAL’s announcement, the KSO leaders were allowed free passage by the villagers.

On the same day, the Working Committee of the UNC and the Sadar Hills Chief Association (SAHILCA), in the presence of the President, held a meeting at the UNC office in Tahamzam, Senapati.

Regarding the physical assaults/attacks on Konsakhul villagers — including the village chief, secretary, pastor, and others — by Leilon Vaiphei villagers on April 5, 2025, and the related land dispute, SAHILCA agreed to fulfill the Naga customary ritual and to indemnify the victims for medical expenses with a lump-sum payment of ₹1,00,000 (Rupees One Lakh) within one week.

In the meeting, SAHILCA, as the parent body of their community, took full moral responsibility for the unfortunate incident. They expressed regret and tendered a formal apology on behalf of the Leilon Vaiphei villagers to the United Naga Council, the parent body of the Nagas, for the actions committed by the Leilon Vaiphei villagers.

Both parties, with utmost concern, also agreed to work earnestly towards a permanent settlement of the land dispute between Konsakhul Village and the Leilon Vaiphei community. The resolution will involve the concerned villages and community leaders, SAHILCA, and the Joint Tribe Council, as per tribal customary law under the UNC Working Committee.