Manipur: Kuki Council criticizes MHA Northeast for rejecting separate Kukiland demand

Imphal: Advisor to the Ministry of Home Affairs (Northeast), A.K. Mishra, has come under severe criticism from the Kuki Human Rights Council (KHRC) for outrightly rejecting the demand of the Kuki armed groups to create a Union Territory.

The underground groups, comprising 25 separate outfits under the joint aegis of the Kuki National Organization (KNO) and the United People's Front (UPF), with a total strength of around 226 cadres, mainly operate along the Manipur-Myanmar border and are currently under a peace pact with both the Central and State governments.

These outfits have been demanding a Union Territory with a legislative assembly to be carved out of Manipur.

During talks with the MHA, KNO, and UPF held on November 6 and 7, 2025, in Delhi, A.K. Mishra acknowledged the Centre’s sensitivity to the plight of the Kuki-Zo people.

However, he stated that the current government policy does not support the creation of new Union Territories, emphasizing the need for consultations with other communities in Manipur before any final resolution.

The KHRC strongly condemned the statement made by A.K. Mishra, rejecting the demand of the Kuki armed groups, KNO/UPF, for a Union Territory with a legislative assembly.

In its statement, the KHRC said, “We view this statement as a clear disregard for the legitimate aspirations and rights of the Kuki people, who have been fighting for their rights and self-determination for decades.”

It further added, “The current situation in Manipur is a stark reminder of the need for a separate administration for the Kuki people. The ethnic conflict and cleansing have resulted in the loss of over 200 Kuki lives and the destruction of more than 200 Kuki villages, perpetrated by Meitei groups, Manipur state forces, and Meitei militants. This violence has created an environment where the Kuki and Meitei communities cannot coexist under the same administration.”