A news report published by The Sangai Express on 16 November has sparked strong objections from the United Peoples’ Front (UPF), the Kuki National Organisation (KNO), and several Kuki-Zo MLAs, who called the headline “Kuki-Zo MLAs decide to join formation of popular Ministry” misleading and factually incorrect.
The controversy surfaced a day after Manipur marked National Press Day, during which concerns were raised over the rise of misinformation in the state. At the observance, the Director of Information and Public Relations urged media houses to prioritise verification, warning that inaccurate reporting could intensify public tensions.
In response to the newspaper report, both the UPF–KNO and the Kuki-Zo MLAs clarified that no decision had been taken on joining any future “popular Ministry.” They said no such resolution was passed and noted that several MLAs named in the report were not even present at the meeting cited.
The UPF–KNO termed the report a misrepresentation, while the MLAs said it had caused unnecessary confusion by presenting assumptions as confirmed outcomes.
According to the clarifications issued, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) conference held on 15 November focused primarily on the community’s demand for a Union Territory with Legislature or Separate Administration. Discussions about participation in any future government were described as preliminary, with many representatives expressing reservations until the Government of India provides clarity on the political aspirations of the Kuki-Zo people. No agreement or commitment resulted from the exchanges.
The groups dismissed the claim that an understanding had been reached regarding the MLAs’ role in a future Ministry, calling it unfounded and inconsistent with the meeting’s proceedings. They warned that inaccurate reporting could fuel misunderstandings at a time when political negotiations remain sensitive.
Reaffirming their stance, the Kuki-Zo MLAs, along with the UPF–KNO and community organisations, said their priority continues to be the demand for a Union Territory with Legislature or Separate Administration. They stressed that any suggestion of their agreement to join a popular Ministry is incorrect and does not reflect the discussions held.
