The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) is an umbrella socio-political organisation representing the collective interests of the Kuki and Zo (Zomi) tribal communities, primarily in Manipur, and also across parts of Mizoram, Assam, and the India–Myanmar border regions. It has emerged as a key political voice articulating community concerns related to identity, security, governance, and constitutional rights.
Background
- The Kuki-Zo communities are ethnically related hill tribes belonging to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic group.
- Historically, these communities have faced issues related to land rights, ethnic identity, and political representation in Manipur’s hill districts.
- The Kuki-Zo Council gained prominence in the context of recurring ethnic tensions and governance challenges in Manipur, especially after the 2023 ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups.
Objectives and Core Demands
- Political Safeguards
- Protection of constitutional and customary rights of Kuki-Zo tribal communities.
- Demand for institutional mechanisms to ensure political autonomy and security.
- Separate Administration
- The KZC has consistently demanded a “separate administration” for Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in Manipur.
- This demand is framed within constitutional provisions and is distinct from a sovereign or secessionist claim.
- Security and Justice
- Restoration of law and order in hill areas affected by ethnic violence.
- Rehabilitation of displaced persons and accountability for violence.
- Cultural and Ethnic Identity
- Preservation of tribal identity, language, customary laws, and traditional governance institutions.
Organisational Role and Structure
- Functions as a coordinating platform for various Kuki-Zo civil society groups, tribal bodies, and political representatives.
- Engages with the Central Government, state authorities, and security agencies through memoranda, dialogues, and public statements.
- Acts as a negotiator and spokesperson for collective community positions rather than as a political party.
Constitutional Context
- The KZC’s demands are often discussed in relation to:
- Sixth Schedule provisions for tribal autonomy.
- Articles relating to tribal administration and protection under the Constitution.
- The issue highlights long-standing tensions between hill areas and valley-based governance structures in Manipur.
Significance
- The Kuki-Zo Council has become a central stakeholder in any dialogue aimed at resolving Manipur’s ethnic and administrative crisis.
- It reflects broader challenges in India’s federal structure concerning:
- Ethnic diversity
- Asymmetric federalism
- Balancing territorial integrity with tribal self-governance
Conclusion
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) represents a structured articulation of tribal political aspirations in Manipur’s hill regions. Its demands underscore the persistent governance and identity challenges in India’s Northeast and highlight the need for constitutional, inclusive, and dialogue-based solutions to address ethnic conflicts while preserving national unity.
