Kuki-Zo Council Renews Demand for Union Territory in Manipur Citing Ethnic Conflict
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has reiterated its demand for a separate Union Territory with a legislature for the Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur. In a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the council alleged that the state government was complicit in atrocities against their community during the ongoing ethnic conflict. The KZC also warned against the resettlement of Meitei internally displaced persons (IDPs) in 'buffer zones' separating the two communities, calling it a provocative attempt that could reignite violence. They seek urgent constitutional and political intervention by the Centre for lasting peace.
Key Points
- The ethnic conflict in Manipur has resulted in over 250 deaths and the displacement of 40,000 people since May 2023.
- Buffer zones are narrow strips of land separating Meitei-dominated valleys from Kuki-Zo inhabited hills.
- The KZC claims that Kuki-Zo people have been unable to access the Imphal Valley for nearly three years, leading to hardships.
- The demand for a Union Territory with a legislature is stated to be within the ambit of the Constitution of India.
Exam Facts
- Kuki-Zo Council (KZC)
- May 3, 2023 (start of Manipur conflict)
- 250 deaths and 40,000 people displaced
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