Ukhrul, August 20: The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) on Wednesday voiced strong concern after a Meetei individual was found crossing into “Kuki-Zo territory” near Saparmaina, in what it described as a breach of the mutually recognized Buffer Zone.
The individual, identified as 50-year-old Yumjao Angom of Sekmai Makhan Leikai, was discovered on August 20 within Kuki-Zo areas. CoTU said he was released unharmed in line with “longstanding humanitarian values” and returned safely.
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While noting the humane handling of the incident, CoTU sharply condemned the crossing as a “serious violation” of fragile peace in the region and warned that further unauthorized movements would not be tolerated. The group called on central security forces and state police deployed in the Buffer Zone to enforce stricter controls and prevent any recurrence.
“Failure to act responsibly will leave the Kuki-Zo community with no option but to reintroduce self-checks and verification of vehicular movement,” the statement said, cautioning that any fallout from such measures would be the responsibility of the government and law enforcement agencies.
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The organization stressed that preventive measures were essential to maintain communal harmony and respect agreed-upon boundaries. It reaffirmed its commitment to peace, coexistence and safety for all communities, urging authorities and stakeholders to uphold existing protocols.