Overview

• On September 15, the Kuki‑Zo Council said it has not opened NH‑2 for free movement and urged both communities to respect buffer zones until a negotiated settlement is reached.
• A day after the Prime Minister’s September 13 visit, unidentified attackers targeted homes of Kuki‑Zo leaders in Churachandpur, including an arson attack on a KNO office‑bearer’s residence.
• Protests erupted in Churachandpur over the September 11 arrests tied to vandalised decorations for the PM’s visit, with stone‑pelting reported before police released two detainees.
• Despite a central announcement to reopen NH‑2 and the PM unveiling about Rs 8,500 crore in projects, Meitei and Kuki‑Zo residents largely avoid crossing into each other’s areas due to safety fears.
• KZC leaders reiterated a push for a political settlement through a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory with a legislature, even as SoO talks with the Centre continue.