Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) representing the Kuki-Zo community in Tengnoupal District have submitted a memorandum to the Union Home Minister, voicing opposition to the proposed Indo-Myanmar border fencing in the region.
The memorandum, submitted through Letpao Haokip, Manipur’s Minister for Tribal Affairs and Hills, has alleged that the project threatens to sever ancestral ties and disrupt the very fabric of their existence.
The Kuki-Zo people, are apprehensive that the fencing will isolate their communities, cut off cross-border cultural and social connections, and violate their historical rights. “This is not just a fence; it is a line that divides families, shatters traditions, and erodes centuries-old cultural heritage,” the memorandum declared.
Highlighting their deep-rooted connection to the land and people across the border, the Kuki-Zo CSOs stressed that the fencing disregards their unique identity. “Our community has thrived in these areas long before artificial borders existed. The fencing disrespects our ancestral rights and risks erasing our way of life,” they added.
The CSOs have urged the government to halt the proposed border fencing; and explore alternative security measures that respect the rights and heritage of indigenous communities.
“This issue is not just about security; it’s about humanity and history. We appeal to the Government of India to ensure that security measures uphold human rights and preserve cultural legacies,” the signatories stated.
