Churachandpur, Sept 10: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has issued a statement welcoming the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the region, calling it a “historic and rare occasion,” as it comes nearly four decades since the last visit of an Indian Prime Minister.
On behalf of the entire Kuki-Zo community, KZC leaders expressed both hope and deep grievances, citing the immense suffering their people have endured in recent years. According to the statement, more than 250 lives have been lost, over 360 churches and places of worship destroyed, 7,000 homes burned, and more than 40,000 people continue to live as displaced persons in relief camps.
KZC reiterated its long-standing demand for a separate administration under Article 239A of the Constitution, in the form of a Union Territory with legislature, asserting that such an arrangement is necessary for peace, security, and survival.
“Whether one likes it or not, the stark reality is that the Kuki-Zo people have been forcibly separated by the aggression of the majority community in Manipur,” the statement said, adding that despite this, the community continues to uphold faith in India’s democratic spirit and leadership.
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The Council expressed confidence that Prime Minister Modi would “give due recognition to our voice, our pain, and our aspirations,” and urged him to take steps to restore dignity and safeguard the future of the Kuki-Zo people.
Signed by KZC Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet and General Secretary Thangzamang, the statement concluded with a warm welcome to the Prime Minister and prayers for the success of his visit.
