COTU Defies Centre’s Directive on Free Road Movement

Imphal, March 4, 2025: The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), representing the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, has openly defied the Union government’s directive to ensure unrestricted movement on state roads. This comes after Union Home Minister Amit Shah instructed security agencies to restore free movement across Manipur by March 8.

COTU, in a statement issued on March 3, declared that no free movement would be allowed in Kuki-Zo areas unless their demands for a separate administration were met. The tribal body reiterated its stance that the demand for a Union Territory with a legislature is “final and non-negotiable.” The resolution also warned against any attempts to enforce peace without addressing their political aspirations, threatening a complete boycott of the ruling government. Additionally, they opposed any arrests of Kuki-Zo volunteers, stating that such actions would be met with consequences.

This defiance comes amid ongoing ethnic tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities, which have been locked in conflict since May 3, 2023. The unrest has resulted in large-scale violence, displacement, and continued blockades on key highways. COTU has previously imposed road blockades as a protest against what they call “selective targeting” by Meitei groups.

The Union government’s efforts to de-escalate the situation face significant hurdles, with COTU’s latest declaration adding to the complexities. While the Home Minister’s directive aims to restore normalcy in Manipur, the tribal body’s firm stand signals continued resistance, further challenging peace efforts in the region.