Kuki-Zo Bodies Submit Joint Memorandum to Kangpokpi SP, Demand Immediate Lifting of Liangmei Naga Blockade

In a strong assertion against what they termed as an “uncalled and deliberate disruption of the only lifeline” connecting Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, leading civil society organisations of the Kuki-Zo community submitted a Joint Memorandum to the Superintendent of Police, Kangpokpi District, demanding the immediate lifting of the intermittent blockade imposed by Liangmei Naga groups.

The memorandum, jointly signed by representatives of the Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KISH), SAHILCA, Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Thadou Inpi, Gangte Tribal Union (GTU), Vaiphei People’s Council (VPC) and Kuki Women Union–Sadar Hills (KWU-SH), warned that continued obstruction of free movement along the Churachandpur–Kangpokpi route could trigger serious public unrest.

The signatories stated that since the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3, 2023, roadways passing through Liangmei-inhabited areas have remained the sole connectivity between geographically isolated Kuki-Zo regions, making any blockade a direct assault on the community’s survival, safety and dignity.

The memorandum alleged that the ongoing ethnic conflict between the majority Meitei/Meetei community and the minority Kuki-Zo people is being exploited by non-participant groups, particularly the Liangmei Nagas, who are accused of acting as “frontal entities” to advance narratives hostile to the Kuki-Zo cause.

Citing recent incidents, the memorandum recalled the January 8 bombing of Kharam Vaiphei village, allegedly carried out under the pretext of illegal farming and drug-related accusations, and the subsequent travel disruptions imposed at Ireng Naga village on January 12, terming them provocative acts intended to incite further unrest.

The memorandum further warned that unverified allegations and sweeping generalisations branding Kuki-Zo village volunteers as insurgent cadres have emboldened armed outfits such as the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and Foothills Naga groups, leading to harassment, intimidation and violence against innocent civilians.

Terming the blockade “inhumane and unlawful,” the Kuki-Zo bodies urged the district administration and police to intervene decisively within 48 hours and ensure uninterrupted movement along the vital route. They cautioned that failure to do so would leave the community with no option but to express public outrage, for which the signatories said they would not be held accountable.

The memorandum was submitted on January 13, 2026, at Kangpokpi, marking one of the strongest collective protests by Kuki-Zo civil bodies against road blockades.