Protests held in Saikul and Moreh against Kuki–Zo MLAs’ participation in Manipur government

Large-scale protests were held on the same day (February 6) in Saikul area of Kangpokpi district and in Moreh town of Tengnoupal district, where members of the Kuki–Zo community expressed opposition to the participation of Kuki–Zo MLAs in the formation of the Manipur Popular Government. 

The demonstrations reflected growing discontent among sections of the electorate in the hill districts over recent political developments.

In Saikul, a mass rally was organised by civil society organisations under the banner of the Kuki–Zo Council (KZC). Protesters marched through the area, stating that any engagement by Kuki–Zo representatives with the present government arrangement did not reflect the collective position adopted by community bodies. Speakers at the rally said resolutions passed by Kuki–Zo organisations oppose participation in the current political process until key concerns are addressed.

A similar protest was organised in Moreh by the Kuki Women’s Union & Human Rights (KWU & HR), Moreh Block. Participants marched from Galngam Lentol through the town before assembling at the Martyrs’ Complex at the KSO Moreh campus. Protesters voiced dissatisfaction with their elected representatives and questioned their decision to take part in the formation of the government.

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During the demonstration in Moreh, slogans were raised against specific MLAs, and an effigy symbolising the legislators was burnt as a mark of protest. Organisers said the act reflected a breakdown of trust between the people and their representatives.

Speakers at both protest sites reiterated that the Kuki–Zo Council has adopted a collective stand that the community should not participate in the functioning of the Manipur government until issues related to security, justice and administrative arrangements are addressed. They maintained that any unilateral political decisions taken by MLAs would not have public support.

Protest organisers also warned that continued disregard for public sentiment could lead to further democratic protests across Kuki–Zo-inhabited areas. 

The demonstrations in Saikul and Moreh highlight the continuing political tensions in Manipur’s hill districts and underscore the fragile situation as discussions around governance and representation continue.