Kangpokpi: The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of the Kuki-Zo community, has strongly criticised what it described as the continued “persecution” of the Kuki-Zo people, accusing the state government and security agencies of failing to address its long-standing Charter of Demands while allegedly neglecting justice in several serious incidents.
In a statement, KIM Information Secretary Janghaolun Haokip expressed concern over what he termed the government’s indifferent response to the political and humanitarian demands raised by the Kuki-Zo community despite months of unrest and repeated appeals.
Haokip sharply criticised the lack of arrests in connection with the killing of Kuki-Zo church leaders, describing the inaction as an example of “selective justice” and institutional failure. He also voiced serious concern over the reported captivity of 14 Kuki-Zo individuals allegedly held by Naga groups in Senapati district, calling for their immediate and unconditional release.
The KIM leader further condemned the ongoing combing operations in Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, alleging that such operations have heightened fear and insecurity among civilians instead of targeting those responsible for killings and abductions.
Accusing state agencies of pursuing a “biased” approach, Haokip said continued security operations in Kuki-Zo regions, while alleged perpetrators remain at large, have deepened mistrust and resentment within the community.
“It is the duty of the State and security forces to identify those responsible for the barbaric killings, bring them to justice, and ensure the immediate, safe and unconditional release of all hostages,” he stated.
Haokip warned that unless justice is delivered and all hostages are released safely, any “unwarranted” combing or military-style operations conducted by state or central security forces in Kuki-Zo areas would likely face strong resistance from the local population.
The statement comes amid rising tensions in the hill districts, with Kuki-Zo women intensifying protests against ongoing security operations, which they claim reflect “selective injustice” against their community.
Reports indicate that since the evening of May 17, Kuki-Zo women across Sadar Hills in Kangpokpi district have been carrying out continuous vigil and resistance activities in their respective localities to oppose further security operations, alleging systemic discrimination and targeted suppression.
