Why Kuki-Zo Groups in Manipur Want a Separate Union Territory

Added: 2026-05-23

[00:00:00]Manipur's ethnic tensions are becoming increasingly complex. Now, the Kuki-Zo Council has submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a major demand, a separate union territory. Since May 2023, Manipur has been witnessing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi-Mizo communities driven by tensions over land, identity, and political representation. While the Meiteis mainly live in the central valley of the state, the surrounding hill districts are home to tribal communities like the Nagas and Kuki-Zos.

[00:00:31]Over the past 3 years, violence, displacement, and deep mistrust have created severe divisions. As a result, in many areas, people from one community can no longer travel safely through regions dominated by another community.

[00:00:44]Adding to the tensions, recent friction has also surfaced between the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities in overlapping hill border areas. Amid this situation, the Kuki-Zo Council has also requested helicopter connectivity for affected areas, greater security deployment in sensitive zones, and safer exam centers for students. Meanwhile, discussions between tribal groups and the Ministry of Home Affairs are still ongoing. But, the bigger question remains, can new administrative boundaries really bring lasting peace to Manipur? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Follow Vision IAS for more such content.