Indigenous Christian leaders in Manipur have renewed their demand for a separate administrative structure for tribal communities, even as the federal government explores steps to restore an elected state government after months of violent unrest.
The appeal comes from leaders representing the mainly Christian Kuki-Zo tribes, who say they can no longer live safely alongside the mostly Hindu Meitei population following violent clashes that began in May 2023.
The conflict has claimed more than 260 lives and forced over 60,000 people from their homes. Tribal leaders report that most of those affected are from Christian communities. Hundreds of churches, schools and church buildings were destroyed during the violence.
In February 2025, India’s central government dismissed Manipur’s state administration and placed the region under federal control. This followed the resignation of the former chief minister amid criticism that his government had failed to prevent the attacks.
Since then, India’s Home Minister has held talks with political parties and community leaders in an effort to restore peace and re-establish local government. However, the Kuki-Zo Council, the main representative body of the Christian tribes, has stated that it will not take part in any new Manipur government unless a separate administrative arrangement for the hill districts is guaranteed.
In a statement released on 6 January, the council said that returning to the existing system without structural change would put their communities at further risk. Leaders say the decision reflects the shared will of the Kuki-Zo people after extensive consultation.
Christian leaders also point to political imbalance in the state legislature, where most seats are held by representatives from the Meitei-majority valley, raising doubts that a future government could fairly represent tribal concerns.
Manipur is home to around 3.2 million people and shares a long, unstable border with Myanmar, adding to the region’s security challenges.
Adapted from UCA News.
