<p>Imphal: Three Manipur MLAs from the Paite and Hmar tribes have expressed concerns about the use of the term 'Kuki-Zo' in press statements and social media, arguing that it does not adequately represent their tribes and fails to honour their distinct identities.</p>.<p>In a statement on Friday, Tipaimukh MLA N Sanate said, "I remain committed to upholding the aspirations and dreams of my people. I would like to make a solemn clarification that I have never endorsed, nor will endorse, any platform, organisation, or statement that excludes the Hmar nomenclature." </p><p>Thanlon MLA Vungzagin Valte said, "The recent usage of the term 'Kuki Zo' is perceived by many within my community as non-inclusive and assimilative. I cannot accept or endorse any term that does not respect the individuality and dignity of all groups that form the fabric of my constituency." </p><p>Valte emphasised that he is a "Paite scheduled tribe belonging to the Zomi community" and urged stakeholders to promote a term that unites and honours their shared history and future aspirations.</p>.Time has come for reconciliation among communities to bring peace: Manipur CM Biren Singh.<p>Kuki and Zomi are terms used to describe various sub-tribes sharing related customs and identities.</p>.<p>The term 'Kuki' became popular during the 19th and 20th centuries under British rule, while 'Zomi' is a collective identity adopted by some Kuki-Chin language speakers in India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. </p><p>Zomis generally reject the labels 'Kuki' and 'Chin.' Churachandpur MLA LM Khaute commented, "It has always been my endeavour to ensure the usage of suitable and appropriate terminology, and I cannot accept any term that excludes Zomi or misrepresents our identity in press statements." </p><p>Khaute suggested that the most "suitable and inclusive term" would be 'Kuki-Zomi-Hmar.'</p>
<p>Imphal: Three Manipur MLAs from the Paite and Hmar tribes have expressed concerns about the use of the term 'Kuki-Zo' in press statements and social media, arguing that it does not adequately represent their tribes and fails to honour their distinct identities.</p>.<p>In a statement on Friday, Tipaimukh MLA N Sanate said, "I remain committed to upholding the aspirations and dreams of my people. I would like to make a solemn clarification that I have never endorsed, nor will endorse, any platform, organisation, or statement that excludes the Hmar nomenclature." </p><p>Thanlon MLA Vungzagin Valte said, "The recent usage of the term 'Kuki Zo' is perceived by many within my community as non-inclusive and assimilative. I cannot accept or endorse any term that does not respect the individuality and dignity of all groups that form the fabric of my constituency." </p><p>Valte emphasised that he is a "Paite scheduled tribe belonging to the Zomi community" and urged stakeholders to promote a term that unites and honours their shared history and future aspirations.</p>.Time has come for reconciliation among communities to bring peace: Manipur CM Biren Singh.<p>Kuki and Zomi are terms used to describe various sub-tribes sharing related customs and identities.</p>.<p>The term 'Kuki' became popular during the 19th and 20th centuries under British rule, while 'Zomi' is a collective identity adopted by some Kuki-Chin language speakers in India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. </p><p>Zomis generally reject the labels 'Kuki' and 'Chin.' Churachandpur MLA LM Khaute commented, "It has always been my endeavour to ensure the usage of suitable and appropriate terminology, and I cannot accept any term that excludes Zomi or misrepresents our identity in press statements." </p><p>Khaute suggested that the most "suitable and inclusive term" would be 'Kuki-Zomi-Hmar.'</p>