Wed Feb 12 07:55:05 UTC 2025: **Manipur’s Kuki-Zo Community Remains Committed to Separate Administration Despite Chief Minister’s Resignation**

**New Delhi, February 11, 2025** – Following the resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, a key demand of the Kuki-Zo community, the community’s 10 MLAs are planning a meeting this week to determine their next steps in addressing the ongoing crisis stemming from the May 3, 2023 ethnic conflict. While the MLAs, seven of whom belong to the BJP, face the challenge of balancing party loyalty with the community’s aspirations, civil society leaders express concern about the MLAs’ commitment to the Kuki-Zo’s central demand: a separate Union Territory with a legislature.

Since the conflict erupted, the Kuki-Zo community has consistently advocated for separation, citing widespread violence and displacement. Ginza Vualzong, spokesperson for the Kuki-Zo Council, reiterated this stance, stating that the community’s desire for a separate administration remains unchanged regardless of Mr. Singh’s resignation. He emphasized the severity of the situation, highlighting the displacement and suffering inflicted upon the Kuki-Zo people.

However, uncertainty lingers. Some civil society leaders express apprehension about the MLAs’ potential wavering commitment, given their past connections to the establishment. Concerns are raised about the effectiveness of future collaborations among MLAs, civil society organizations, and Suspension of Operation groups due to evolving power dynamics over the past two years. The ability to reach a unified strategy remains a key challenge for the community moving forward.

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