Tiger Road poses security threat : ZUF

    21-Jan-2026
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By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jan 20: The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has asserted that the so-called Tiger or German road poses a direct threat to indigenous land, security and social stability.
Through a press release issued by its ministry of information and publicity, the ZUF has categorically rejected the claims made by ‘Kuki refugee groups’ that the so-called Tiger or German road is a lifeline for their people.
These assertions are misleading and disregard the historical, traditional and customary rights of the Zeliangrong Inpui Naga people, it said.
The ZUF said that the Zeliangrong Inpui Naga community does not recognize or permit the construction or use of such roads within its traditional and ancestral territory without due consent and lawful authorization.
The establishment of this road has raised serious concerns, as they are widely perceived to facilitate illegal activities, including drug trafficking, arms smuggling and the influx of undocumented immigrants, thereby posing a direct threat to indigenous land, security and social stability, it said. The ZUF has also urged the Central and State security forces to maintain strict neutrality and professionalism while discharging their duties.
Any form of nexus or association with Kuki underground groups is unacceptable and risks escalating tensions, particularly during incidents of armed confrontation, it said.
The ZUF has also reiterated its firm opposition to illegal poppy cultivation within Zeliangrong Inpui territory.
Individuals found engaged in poppy cultivation or harvesting activities shall be dealt with strictly, it said.
The ZUF remains committed to the protection of indigenous rights, ancestral land and the pursuit of lasting peace through lawful and constitutional means, it added.