Centre rejects Kuki-Zo groups' demand for separate Union Territory

India Nov 09, 2025

After two days of talks in Delhi, the Indian government has turned down the Kuki-Zo groups' request to carve out a separate Union Territory from Manipur.
The Kuki National Organisation and United People's Front argued their lands were never part of Manipur before Independence and wanted more autonomy.

Ethnic tensions remain high in Manipur

This decision comes as ethnic tensions remain high in Manipur, with deep divides between Meitei-majority valleys and Kuki-Zo hill areas.
The Centre says it can't create new Union Territories right now and wants wider discussions with all communities.
Meanwhile, violence and displacement continue, highlighting just how urgent lasting peace—and fair solutions for everyone—really are.