Manipur Peace Still Distant? Kuki-Zo Groups Oppose Amit Shah's Directive For Unhindered Road Movement—Here’s Why

The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), an organisation representing the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, has declared that there will be no unrestricted movement in Kuki-Zo territories until a resolution addressing the community's aspirations is achieved, The New Indian Express reported.

The statement comes after Union Home Minister Amit Shah instructed security agencies to guarantee unhindered movement for individuals on all Manipur roads starting from 8 March, in a meeting in New Delhi on 1 March.

An "eight-point charter of resolution" was adopted at a Monday event, which included a decision that came as a response to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directive. Shah had directed that severe measures should be employed against anyone seeking to cause disruptions.

In a high-level meeting regarding the security situation in Manipur, the Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, as well as the Union Home Secretary and the Director of the Intelligence Bureau were present.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Chief of Army Staff, the Army Commander of the Eastern Command, and the Directors General of the BSF, CRPF, and Assam Rifles. The Security Advisor for Manipur and high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Army, and the Manipur administration were also present.

The Confederation of Tribal Unions (COTU) declared that the Kuki-Zo tribals are determined to continue their struggle until they secure a separate administration. They emphasised that there would be no compromise or surrender, and their battle would be waged through mobilisation, protests, and democratic resistance.

In further detail, the organisation asserted that the call for a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory with legislature is an absolute requirement. COTU also insisted that the governor retract his statements opposing separate administration, emphasising that his interaction with Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei radical group, should not determine the community's future.

The COTU issued a stern warning that anyone who places their personal interests above the common good, or aligns themselves with the government, would be considered a traitor. Additionally, they cautioned against the detainment of volunteers from Kuki-Zo.

The organisation warned that if the government enforces peace without resolving the Kuki-Zo political matter, there will be a total and unchangeable boycott of the governing body.