The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has publicly apologized for the killing of six Naga civilians in Manipur, expressing hope that the move will reduce tensions and help end the economic blockade affecting Kuki-Zo communities.
The apology came after the bodies of six Naga villagers were found near a Kuki-Zo village on June 10. The incident further increased tensions between the two tribal communities, both of which are largely Christian.
Speaking at a press conference in Churachandpur, KZC Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet admitted that the killings were a serious mistake. He expressed deep regret on behalf of the Kuki-Zo community and called on the authorities to bring those responsible to justice.
A Church leader from the Kuki community said the apology was made to restore peace and end hostility between the two communities. He explained that the ongoing economic blockade has caused severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel in Kuki-Zo areas, leaving many families dependent on supplies brought by the armed forces.
However, Naga organizations rejected the apology, saying that it would not be accepted until those responsible for the killings are punished according to law. They also announced that the economic blockade would continue until justice is served.
The recent violence is part of a series of retaliatory attacks between the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities that began in April. Around 30 people have been killed and about 45 Kuki villages have been burned in the latest clashes. The unrest comes amid the wider ethnic conflict in Manipur, which began in May 2023 and has claimed more than 260 lives, displaced over 60,000 people, and destroyed thousands of homes, churches, and Church institutions.
