Manipur: Nagas & Kukis Reach Interim Truce in Kangpokpi; Movement Ban Suspended
News Summary
In a significant development aimed at restoring peace in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, the Naga and Kuki communities have reached an interim truce concerning a recent land dispute. The Committee on Protection of Indigenous Peoples’ Ancestral Land (COPIPAL) had earlier imposed a ban on the movement of Kukis in Naga territories following an attack on Konsaram/Konsakhul Naga village on April 5, 2025. However, after interventions by the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Joint Tribes Council (JTC), the ban has been temporarily suspended. As part of the agreement, the Kuki community is to pay Rs 1 lakh to the Nagas, and both communities have committed to working towards a permanent resolution of the land dispute.
Understanding the Conflict: A Deep Dive
Backdrop: The April 5 Incident
On April 5, 2025, the peaceful Konsaram/Konsakhul Naga village in Kangpokpi district was reportedly attacked by individuals from the Leilon Kuki-Vaiphei community. The assault resulted in severe injuries to 13 villagers, including the village chief. This incident intensified existing tensions between the Naga and Kuki communities, rooted in longstanding land disputes and ethnic differences.nenow.in
COPIPAL’s Movement Ban
In response to the attack, COPIPAL, representing the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme Naga tribes, announced a complete ban on the movement of Kukis within their territories, effective June 2, 2025. The ban was a form of protest and a measure to safeguard ancestral lands and communities.
The Path to Reconciliation
Recognizing the need for peace, leaders from both communities convened on June 2, 2025, at the UNC office in Tahamzam, Senapati. The meeting included representatives from the UNC, the Sadar Hills Chief Association (SAHILCA), and the JTC. Key outcomes of the meeting were:
- Apology and Compensation: SAHILCA acknowledged the attack, offered a formal apology, and agreed to pay Rs 1 lakh to the affected Naga community.
- Suspension of Movement Ban: In light of these gestures, COPIPAL temporarily suspended the movement ban on Kukis in Naga territories.
- Commitment to Dialogue: Both communities expressed a commitment to resolving the land dispute through ongoing dialogue and mutual understanding.
FAQs
Q1: What led to the imposition of the movement ban by COPIPAL?
A1: The ban was imposed following an attack on Konsaram/Konsakhul Naga village by individuals from the Leilon Kuki-Vaiphei community on April 5, 2025, which resulted in injuries to 13 villagers.
Q2: What are the terms of the interim truce between the Nagas and Kukis?
A2: The Kuki community agreed to pay Rs 1 lakh to the Nagas and offered a formal apology. In return, COPIPAL suspended the movement ban on Kukis in Naga territories
Q3: Is the movement ban lifted permanently?
A3: No, the ban is temporarily suspended. Both communities have committed to ongoing dialogue to reach a permanent resolution.
Q4: What role did the United Naga Council play in the truce?
A4: The UNC facilitated the meeting between the communities and played a crucial role in mediating the agreement leading to the suspension of the movement ban.
Q5: How does this truce impact the broader peace process in Manipur?
A5: The truce is a positive step towards peace, demonstrating the effectiveness of dialogue and mutual respect in resolving ethnic conflicts in the region
