Tengnoupal Kuki-Zo Bodies Reject Popular Govt, Warn Against Resettlement, Force Deployment

The Kuki-Zo Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Tengnoupal District have categorically opposed the formation of the “Popular Government,” the alleged Meitei Resettlement Policy, and the proposed posting of Meitei State Forces in the district, particularly in Moreh.

The statement, issued collectively by key Kuki-Zo bodies including the Kuki Chiefs’ Association (Tengnoupal), Kuki Students’ Organisation (Tengnoupal), Hill Tribal Council (Moreh), Kuki Women Union & Human Rights (KWU&HR), and the Molnoi Area Welfare Council (MAWC), asserted that these developments pose a direct threat to the security, demographic integrity, and political aspirations of the Kuki-Zo people.

The organisations declared that the so-called “Popular Government” does not represent the interests of the Kuki-Zo community and termed its formation “unacceptable.” They warned that imposing such a government without addressing the long-standing demand for a separate administration risks deepening division and unrest.

The CSOs further alleged that the resettlement policy amounts to a deliberate attempt to alter the demographic composition of traditionally Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, particularly Moreh. They stated that any move to resettle Meitei populations in Tengnoupal district would be firmly resisted.

Expressing grave concern over the possible deployment of Meitei State Forces in the district, the CSOs maintained that such actions would undermine the collective rights and security of the Kuki-Zo people.

Reiterating their central demand, the organisations affirmed their unwavering call for a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo people. They urged the Central Government to address their constitutional demands without further delay.
“Until a separate and just administration is granted, we categorically oppose any attempt to implement resettlement policies or deploy state forces in our district,” the statement read.

While reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace and security, the CSOs cautioned that they would not hesitate to take necessary democratic measures to safeguard their rights, holding the government solely responsible for any consequences arising from the present course of action.

The joint statement was signed by LS Seikhojang Baite (President, Kuki Chiefs’ Association, Tengnoupal), Thangboi Lhungdim (President, Kuki Students’ Organisation, Tengnoupal), Victor Limthang (President, Hill Tribal Council, Moreh), S. Phalneikim Mate (President, KWU&HR, Tengnoupal), and Sonpao Haokip (Chairman, MAWC).

The development signals renewed political tension in the district amid ongoing debates over governance structure and ethnic security concerns in Manipur’s hill areas.