In a May 22 press release, the Kuki apex body hails UNAU Tripura’s solidarity over pastor killings, urges sustained vigilance, and reaffirms commitment to Kuki identity and historical ties with Tripura
Edited by Kimbawinu Vaiphei, Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi: May 22, 2026
The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of the Kuki tribes, has issued a formal statement of gratitude and appeal to the United Native Association of Union Tripura (UNAU Tripura) for extending solidarity to the Kuki people during what it described as a time of “deep national grief.” The statement, released from the KIM Secretariat in Lamka on Thursday, underscored the importance of continued support from fraternal organisations as the community grapples with prolonged violence in Manipur.
In the press release signed by Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary for Information and Publicity, KIM specifically acknowledged UNAU Tripura’s condemnation of the brutal killing of three Baptist pastors from the Kuki community. The apex body said the incident had “deeply pained our people” and served as a stark reminder of the continued violence faced by the community. The Kuki Inpi noted that such gestures of concern and engagement have brought encouragement to the Kuki during a period of immense hardship.
Recalling the outbreak of ethnic violence on 3 May 2023, the Kuki Inpi stated that the Kuki community has endured “immense suffering, displacement, and loss” for over three years. The situation in Manipur, it said, remains serious and continues to cause great hardship. Against this backdrop, KIM appealed to UNAU Tripura to remain vigilant, continue monitoring developments closely, and use its voice and platforms to speak for justice, peace, and the Kuki people.
Reaffirming its cultural stance, the Kuki Inpi declared that the Kuki identity “shall endure and grow stronger through these difficult times” and will remain a source of unity and dignity for the people. The statement also touched on long-term political aspirations, asserting that when such goals are realised, it will be a moment of shared pride for all Kuki people. KIM added that Kuki brothers and sisters in Tripura, who continue to live with dignity and prosperity on their lands, will be warmly welcomed to celebrate “as in the old days, in fellowship and unity.”
The apex body further stated its commitment to revive Kukistan and ensure that the community’s shared history is remembered. It emphasized that the Kuki people of Tripura, who were among the first to be recorded as Kukis, remain an important part of the collective Kuki identity. The press release framed this historical continuity as central to the community’s resilience and future.
Concluding the statement, the Kuki Inpi once again expressed appreciation to UNAU Tripura and said it looks forward to the organisation’s continued support and principled voice in the days ahead. The release, bearing reference number 04/KIM/PR/25-32, reiterated the body’s call for justice while highlighting the enduring bonds between Kuki communities across state borders.
