Kuki-Zo Council Declares Social Boycott of MLAs Joining Manipur Government

Several Kuki organizations in Manipur have warned community MLAs against participating in the formation of the state government, calling for a “total shutdown” in Kuki-majority areas and urging protests in villages across the hill districts.

BJP MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the 13th Chief Minister of Manipur on Wednesday, nearly a year after the resignation of his predecessor, N Biren Singh. Nemcha Kipgen , a BJP MLA from the Kuki community, and L Dikho , from the Naga People's Front, took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers .

Reacting to these appointments, the Joint Forum of Seven (JF7) , a tribal organization based in Churachandpur district, announced a 12-hour shutdown from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday in Kuki Zo-dominated areas. The forum urged community members to participate in protests peacefully and reiterated their long-standing demand for a separate Kuki administration .

The Kuki Zo Council stated that any community MLA who disregards this collective decision will be acting in a personal capacity , and the organization will not be responsible for any consequences arising from such decisions. Certain Kuki militant groups have also issued warnings against participation in government formation.

Protests have already begun, with agitators in Kangpokpi district burning tyres and placing bamboo barricades on roads to oppose Nemcha Kipgen’s swearing-in.

Manipur has been affected by ethnic violence since May 3, 2023 , following a tribal solidarity march in hill districts against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status . The clashes have resulted in over 260 deaths , including Kuki, Meitei, and security personnel, and left thousands displaced .

The current situation highlights the delicate ethnic and political balance in Manipur, with the Kuki community asserting its demands while the state government seeks to consolidate power.