Zomi groups have renewed their objection to the use of the term “Kuki-Zo” for groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) framework in Manipur, saying the nomenclature does not represent their identity and was used without their consent.
The position highlights an internal divide among groups broadly associated with the Kuki-Zo political movement. It also raises questions over who can speak for the different communities involved in the SoO process, especially as efforts continue to find a political settlement to Manipur’s conflict.
Zomi groups reject Kuki-Zo label
The Zomi groups of the United People’s Front (UPF), including the Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA), Zomi Defence Volunteers (ZDV) and Zomi Revolutionary Force (ZRF), have maintained that they do not recognise “Kuki-Zo” as their identity.
In a statement issued in November 2025, the groups said they should instead be referred to as “Zomi SoO Groups” or “Zomi Groups of UPF”. They also suggested “Kuki-Zomi-Hmar” when referring collectively to the SoO groups.
The groups argued that Zomi is their indigenous and self-identified name. They said no political arrangement should be accepted unless it recognises and respects Zomi identity, history, culture, land and resources. This position remains important in the wider debate over political representation in the hill districts.
Why consent is central to the dispute
Zomi groups have also questioned decisions taken in their name without prior consultation. They specifically objected to the Nampi Conclave held in Guwahati in November 2025, saying representatives of the three Zomi groups and Zomi civil society organisations did not attend.
According to their statement, the UPF constitution requires leaders to be informed, discussions to be held and consent to be obtained before major decisions are taken. The groups said top Zomi leaders were not consulted before the conclave was convened.
Therefore, the dispute is not limited to terminology. It also concerns political authority and the right of individual tribal groups to decide how they are represented.
SoO framework has a complex history
The Suspension of Operations agreement was formally signed in 2008 between the Centre, the Manipur government, the Kuki National Organisation and the United People’s Front. The two umbrella organisations represented multiple armed groups from Kuki, Zomi and Hmar communities.
The arrangement was designed to suspend hostilities and create a framework for political dialogue. However, differences over identity and representation have persisted among its constituents.
The disagreement has become more visible since the ethnic violence that began in May 2023. The term “Kuki-Zo” has gained wider use in political and media discussions, but Zomi groups have repeatedly said that the label should not automatically be applied to them.
Zomi groups seek separate recognition
The identity issue also connects with differences over political demands. Zomi organisations have sought recognition of their distinct identity while remaining involved in discussions surrounding the SoO process.
In 2025, the Zomi groups said they did not support the use of “Kuki-Zo” as their collective identity or accept the Kuki-Zo Council as their official representative. They also said the Zomi Council and related organisations represent their civil society interests.
At the same time, the broader Kuki-Zo political movement has continued to push for a separate administrative arrangement for areas dominated by the community. In March 2026, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh held a meeting with the Kuki-Zo Council, marking a significant engagement after the 2023 violence.
Identity debate could affect peace talks
The continuing disagreement over nomenclature shows the difficulty of presenting the hill communities as a single political bloc. Zomi groups have stressed that cooperation among related communities should be based on mutual respect rather than an imposed identity.
The issue could become more significant as governments and political organisations attempt to restart dialogue in Manipur. The Centre and the state will need to consider the different positions within the SoO framework rather than assuming that every signatory group shares the same political or ethnic identity.
For Zomi groups, the latest objections are therefore about more than a name. They are also about consultation, representation and recognition. As discussions over Manipur’s future continue, their demand for consent could remain a key part of the wider peace process.
Manipur Boys Win Gold Sweep at National Sepak Takraw Championships in Srinagar
