No crossing of buffer zones: Kukis CSOs of Churachanpur warn Meiteis

The Kuki Civil Societies of Churachandpur district have informed to all that unless and until a political settlement is reached by the Government of India for the Kuki-Zo community under the Constitutional framework of India, no friendly approach to the jurisdiction of Kuki-Zo land would be allowed for the Meetei community.

"Whoever attempts to cross the buffer zone shall be considered a direct challenge to the Kuki- zo community, and any untoward incidents that occur during such attempts shall be solely the responsibility of those who undertake them," a statement issued on Wednesday (April 9) said.

The Kukis civil society organisations, including Kuki Inpi Churachandpur (KIC), Kuki Chiefs' Association (KCA), Kuki Khanglai Lawmpi (KKL), Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO), Kuki Women Union (KWU) and Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR), said there is speculation that the Meetei community intends to cross the buffer zone for Ching Kaba at Thangting Hills in the month of April.

To avoid further escalation, the Kuki CSOs warned that each community must maintain the status quo and respect the buffer zone, and any intention to cross the buffer zone would be opposed to tooth and nail by the Kuki-Zo community.