Kuki-Zo Council Raises Strong Objection to Chieftainship Abolition Bid and NEC’s Guest House Project, Urges Governor and Centre to Intervene
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has strongly opposed what it describes as “renewed attempts” to activate the Manipur Hill Areas (Acquisition of Chiefs’ Rights) Act, 1967, warning that any enforcement of the law would directly threaten tribal land ownership and the identity of the Kuki-Zo people.
In a press release issued on Monday, the Council said the Act, though enacted decades ago, was never implemented because “it would dismantle the traditional chieftainship system and tribal land ownership safeguarded under constitutional protections for the hill peoples.”
“Any move to enforce this Act directly threatens the heritage, autonomy, and identity of the Kuki-Zo community,” the statement added.
Concerns Over Memorandum by Meetei Tribe Union
The KZC expressed alarm over a memorandum reportedly submitted by the Meetei Tribe Union on 24 November 2025, seeking the abolition of tribal chieftainship. According to the Council, the Home Department of Manipur forwarded the memorandum for early action.
Calling the development “deliberate and destabilizing,” the Council stated, “The very notion that a non-tribal organization is proposing fundamental changes to tribal land governance highlights deep disregard for tribal rights.”
With Manipur still facing conflict and displacement, the KZC urged the Governor of Manipur to intervene and ensure the matter is not taken forward “under present circumstances.”
Objection to NEC Guest House Plan
The Council also criticised a 27 November 2025 announcement by the North Eastern Council (NEC) sanctioning ₹2.13 crores for a Hill Chiefs’ Guest House at Palace Compound, Imphal — a location the KZC says is unsafe for Kuki-Zo people.
“Such decisions show a disconnect from ground realities and do not prioritize the urgent needs of conflict-affected tribal communities,” the release noted. The NEC was urged to withhold the project “until an environment of peace and accessibility is restored.”
‘Protecting Land and Institutions Non-Negotiable’
The KZC said these developments reflect “continued marginalization and insecurity” faced by the community in Manipur.
“Protecting our land, institutions, and rights is non-negotiable. Lasting peace and stability demand a political arrangement that guarantees safety, dignity, and self-governance for the Kuki-Zo people,” the Council declared.
The statement also call to the Government of India to expedite political talks and deliver “a fair, just, and permanent solution without delay.”