IMPHAL, Dec 9: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), has strongly condemned Meitei MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh after what it described as an “irresponsible publicity stunt” at a Kuki-Zo internally displaced persons (IDP) relief camp in Litan Sareikhong, Ukhrul district.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Council said the MLA arrived at the camp on December 8 without any prior intimation to Kuki-Zo leaders, camp authorities or the district administration. According to the Council, Khemchand had been visiting BJP workers elsewhere and made an “impromptu” stop at the relief camp during his return journey, later circulating photos and videos online to project himself as a peace-maker in conflict-hit Manipur.
The KZC questioned the MLA’s intentions, asking pointedly: “Where was Khemchand during May 3–7, 2023, when violence broke out and Kuki-Zo families in and around Imphal were targeted and displaced? What prevented him from speaking then?” It said his silence during the height of the crisis and his sudden interest now “do not align,” adding that the trauma suffered by displaced families cannot be healed through symbolic gestures.
The Council also dismissed the MLA’s choice of location as evidence of courage or reconciliation, noting that Meiteis have always travelled freely to Ukhrul and other Kaccha Naga–dominated districts without restriction. A casual stop during his leisure travel, it said, brings “no safety, justice, or accountability” to displaced families who continue to endure hardship.
Calling the act insincere, the KZC cautioned political leaders and individuals against visiting Kuki-Zo areas or relief centres without prior communication with community authorities. With tensions still simmering, it warned that uncoordinated visits could spark misunderstandings or unwanted confrontations.
Rejecting the MLA’s portrayal of himself as a peace-maker, the organisation added: “We also reject Khemchand’s attempt to use the suffering of IDPs to build his personal image as a hero or peace-maker. Such gestures are neither welcome nor meaningful.”
“Peace must be discussed at the appropriate table-not manufactured through photo opportunities or viral videos,” the statement concluded.
