Kuki-Zo Groups in Manipur: Demands for UT Status, SoO Pact & Ongoing Peace Talks

Talks between the Centre, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and Kuki-Zo groups resumed in 2026 amid renewed ethnic tensions in Manipur.

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Background of the Talks

• Suspension of Operations (SoO) Framework: The SoO pact, signed in 2008 with Kuki National Organisation and United People’s Front, provides a ceasefire mechanism with insurgent groups.
  • It was renewed in September 2025 with revised conditions under President’s Rule.
• Post-2023 Ethnic Violence: Ethnic clashes between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities since May 2023 triggered large-scale displacement and insecurity.
  • This violence reshaped demands from autonomy to political separation.
• Resumption of Political Dialogue: Talks resumed in May 2026 after a gap, involving both central and Manipur State officials.
  • Discussions focused on security arrangements and relocation of SoO camps.
• Demand for Political Settlement: Kuki-Zo groups reiterated their demand for a Union Territory with the legislature, rejecting a return to status quo.

About Kuki-Zo Groups

• Kuki-Zo groups are a collective of ethnic tribes inhabiting Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, and parts of Myanmar and Bangladesh.
• They belong to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic family and are predominantly Christian.
• Key Characteristics
  • They reside mainly in the hill districts surrounding the Imphal Valley.
  • Society is organised around tribal identity and chieftainship-based governance.
• Related Groups and Organisations
  • Major political-insurgent platforms include KNO and UPF under the SoO pact.
  • The Kuki-Zo Council represents socio-political interests.
• Core Demand: The primary demand is for a separate administrative unit (UT with legislature) to ensure security, autonomy, and protection of land rights.

Current Issues of the Region 

• Ethnic Conflict and Insecurity: Continued clashes with Meitei and Naga groups have led to killings, displacement, and destruction of property.
• Land and Identity Concerns: Disputes over tribal land rights and fears of demographic and administrative marginalisation persist.
  • Inclusion of Meiteis in ST list triggered tensions.
• Humanitarian Crisis: Over 60,000 displaced persons require rehabilitation and rebuilding of homes and institutions.
  • Relief and resettlement remain slow and inadequate.

Way Forward

• Inclusive Political Dialogue: Sustained negotiations involving all stakeholders are essential for a constitutional and peaceful settlement.
• Strengthening Security and Governance: Deployment of neutral central forces and better coordination can restore law and order.
• Balanced Autonomy Framework: Exploring options like enhanced autonomy or decentralised governance within constitutional limits can provide a middle path.

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Conclusion

This issue requires a balanced approach combining security, political accommodation, and humanitarian response to ensure long-term stability in Manipur.

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