Kuki Chief Association Manipur, Tengnoupal CSOs Reiterate Opposition to Construction of Border Fencing

In support of the strong opposition raised by the Kuki Chief Association, various Kuki-Zo civil society organisations (CSOs) based in Moreh and its surrounding areas under Tengnoupal district have voiced their opposition to the construction of border fencing.

The CSOs, including the Kuki Chief Association Moreh Block, Hill Tribal Council Moreh, Kuki Students' Organisation Moreh Block, Moreh Youth Club, Kuki Khanglai Lampi, and Kuki Women Union and Human Rights Moreh Block, issued a joint statement on Monday, expressing solidarity with the Kuki Chief Association’s stance against the border fencing.

The CSOs stated that the imposition of such barriers by the government threatens the traditional way of life of the Kuki-Zo communities, disrupting social cohesion, cultural practices, and livelihoods.

Furthermore, they expressed concern over the implication that the ongoing ethnic clashes between communities are due to illegal immigrants—calling it a blatant and misleading narrative propagated by the Meiteis to discredit the Kuki-Zo people. The release emphasized that it would be wise for the government to take a balanced approach to such sensitive matters.

Earlier, on April 12, the Kuki Chiefs Association Manipur (KCA-M) issued a statement reaffirming its firm opposition to the construction of border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border.

The association stated that the proposed fencing is a direct affront to the rights and interests of the indigenous tribes settled in the region.

"The imposition of such barriers by the government threatens the traditional way of life of the tribal communities, disrupting social cohesion, and cultural and livelihood practices," the release stated.

Echoing the sentiments of other tribal organisations, the Kuki Chiefs reaffirmed their decision to resist any efforts to use their lands for this controversial border fencing project.

The association added that the construction of such fencing would ultimately lead to the disintegration of their social fabric and traditions.

“For the Kuki people, maintaining our cultural identity and unity is paramount. Hence, our right to safeguard our land from developments that could harm our community should be strongly asserted,” KCA-M added.

The association also called upon all Kuki chiefs and the broader community to refuse permission for their lands to be used for any project that could divide their people and damage their heritage.