Kuki-Zo Council Holds Leaders’ Consultative Meeting in Churachandpur

The Kuki-Zo Council held a consultative meeting with various Kuki-Zo organisations, including church leaders and Kuki-Zo MLAs, to deliberate on the current situation and discuss the way forward. Leaders of different organisations were given the opportunity to share their opinions on the prevailing situation.

Kuki-Zo Council Chairman Henlenthang Thanglet said that the leaders of the United Naga Council are working under the instructions and command of the NSCN-IM, which has been a hindrance to attempts to approach UNC leaders for dialogue.

The KZC chairman expressed optimism that church leaders can play a vital role in bridging the gap and initiating dialogue between the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities.

Singat MLA Chinlunthang Zou said that the current situation between the Kuki-Zo and Naga groups could be the handiwork of the NSCN-IM. Given the current situation, it seems that conflict is unavoidable, but it is necessary to chalk out ways and means to prevent the conflict.

“The Nagas are well aware of the internal matters within the Kuki-Zo communities. So, they will certainly have plans to separate the Kuki-Zo groups,” said Chinlunthang.

Henglep MLA Letzamang said the Kuki-Zo people have endured hardships in the conflict with the Meiteis, which has not ended yet. As such, another conflict will have a negative impact on the Kuki-Zo community.

The MLA also said the Nagas had indulged in unwanted activities against the Kuki-Zo even during the Kuki-Zo–Meitei conflict, and that there were several instances where they provoked the Kuki-Zo community. However, he said the Kuki-Zo groups had tried their level best to avoid conflict with the Nagas.

The MLA said the recent brutal killing of a Kuki-Zo church leader has yet again tested the patience of the Kuki-Zo groups. However, he suggested that the Kuki-Zo Council and the church should appeal for peace.

Paolienlal Haokip said an appeal must be made for peace and cessation of hostilities, while adding that not all Naga communities are interested in conflict. He further alleged that some Tangkhul leaders, influenced by former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, have tried their best to involve all Naga communities in the conflict.