Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit to Manipur on September 13, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) on Tuesday extended a “warm welcome” to the Prime Minister while renewing its long-standing demand for a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo community.

Terming the visit a “historic and rare occasion,” the Council noted that it comes nearly four decades after an Indian Prime Minister last visited the region.

In a statement, the KZC drew attention to what it described as the “immeasurable hardships” faced by the community since the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur last year. According to the Council, over 250 lives have been lost, more than 360 churches destroyed, around 7,000 homes burnt, and over 40,000 people remain displaced in relief camps.

The KZC asserted that the Kuki-Zo people have been “forcibly separated” by the actions of the majority Meitei community but continue to “uphold faith in the democratic spirit and leadership of India.”

Reiterating its demand for a Union Territory with legislature under Article 239A of the Constitution, the Council said the call for separation was “born out of necessity for peace, security, and survival.”

Expressing confidence in Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Council added, “We place our trust in your leadership to heal our wounds, restore our dignity, and safeguard the future of the Kuki-Zo people.”