Guwahati: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) announced on Friday that the Kuki-Zo community will not participate in the formation of the Manipur government, reiterating its demand for a separate administrative setup.
The decision came after the KZC’s Governing Council, representing all constituent bodies, held a general meeting in Churachandpur to assess the political, social, and security situation in the state.
The council said it unanimously resolved that, given ongoing tensions and the inability of Kuki-Zo people to coexist peacefully with the Meitei community, the demand for a Union Territory under the Constitution of India must be reaffirmed.
“The Kuki-Zo people cannot and shall not participate in the formation of the Manipur government,” the statement said. It added that any community member who chooses to join the process will do so in a personal capacity, and the KZC will not bear responsibility.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February last year, following prolonged ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and hill-based Kuki-Zo groups. Since May 2023, the clashes have killed at least 260 people and displaced thousands across the state.