Nagas denounce shifting of Kuki-Zo camps

Guwahati: The recent extension of the tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact between the Centre and Kuki-Zo militant groups has sparked tensions, particularly among the Nagas, which has alleged that the relocation of designated militant camps encroaches on their ancestral lands.

The agreement was signed last week after a meeting between the Ministry of Home Affairs officials, the Manipur government and leaders of the Kuki National Organisation and the United People's Front. It included maintaining territorial integrity of Manipur, relocating camps away from vulnerable areas and working for a solution to bring peace and stability in the state.

The plan to relocate camps has provoked a backlash from the Naga community, dominant in foothill areas like Kangpokpi and Ukhrul.


The Foothills Naga Coordination Committee in a statement denounced the reports about 'Thingsat' camp being shifted to Kharam Vaiphei village (Naga ancestral land) and renamed as 'Lhangkichoi'. Calling it "total undermining" of Naga rights, FNCC accused the government of offering a "safe haven" to militants. FNCC has warned of "inevitable bloodshed" if the shift proceeded, holding the government accountable for any Kuki-Naga violence.