Manipur: Kuki-Zo observe 'Separation Day', renew demand for Union Territory

Thousands from the Kuki-Zo community gathered across Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, to mark Separation Day, amidst the observance of two years of Manipur crisis.

Organized under the aegis of the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), the observance brought life to a standstill across Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi town, Saikul Hill town, and Leimakhong, with the central event held at Brig. M. Thomas Ground in Kangpokpi headquarters. 

The entire district saw a total shutdown, government offices, banks, schools, businesses, and even agricultural activities like jhumming (shifting cultivation) came to a halt, as the community collectively entered a day of mourning and remembrance. Vehicular movement was the only activity exempted from the shutdown.

Community leaders described the day as a "day of severance" from the Meiteis, marking what they see as the final collapse of trust and coexistence between the two groups. "It is a day to affirm our identity, mourn our dead, honour our survivors, and declare to the world that coexistence with those who inflicted such suffering upon us is no longer possible," said Amang Chongloi, Vice Chairman of CoTU, while addressing the crowd.

Tribal leaders and activists, including Kuki Inpi Manipur President Ajang Khongsai, Sadar Hills Chiefs’ Association President Haokholen Kipgen, social activist Dr. Lamtinthang Haokip, and Kuki-Zo Council representative Rev. Dr. GS Gangte — joined the call for justice and self-determination.

Condolence prayers led by Dr. Rev. Satkhokai Chongloi and Rev. Lunkhosat Kipgen added a spiritual solemnity to the occasion as the community remembered those killed in the violence of 2023, which left thousands displaced and homes reduced to ashes.

"The wounds of May 3, 2023, remain raw," Chongloi said, referring to the day when violent clashes erupted in Manipur, leading to widespread arson, killings, and allegations of sexual violence against Kuki-Zo women.

Reiterating their political demand, CoTU leaders made a plea to the Central government, seeking the creation of a Union Territory with its own legislature — a self-governed homeland where the Kuki-Zo people can live "in safety, dignity, and self-determination."