Imphal: In a crucial effort to broker peace in violence-stricken Manipur, the Central government convened a high-stakes meeting on 5th April with representatives from the warring Meitei and Kuki communities. The closed-door discussions, held under the supervision of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), mark a significant step in the Centre’s push to mediate a lasting resolution to the ethnic conflict that has engulfed the northeastern state since May 2023.
The talks, described by insiders as “candid and constructive,” focused on three key objectives: rebuilding trust between the two communities, restoring law and order, and establishing a sustainable roadmap for reconciliation. With Manipur still reeling from months of violent clashes, displacement, and economic disruption, the meeting aimed to foster cooperation and lay the groundwork for long-term stability.
A senior government official privy to the discussions told, “The priority is to ensure that both sides feel heard and that their grievances are addressed through dialogue rather than violence. Today’s meeting was about creating a framework for future negotiations.”
The Central government was represented by A.K. Mishra, former Special Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), who has been serving as the Centre’s interlocutor for the Manipur crisis. His presence underscored the high-level attention being given to the conflict.
The Meitei delegation included six representatives, with prominent figures from influential civil society groups such as the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) and the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS). These organizations have been vocal in articulating Meitei concerns over land rights, political representation, and security.
On the opposing side, the Kuki delegation comprised seven leaders from various tribal bodies, reflecting the diverse factions within the Kuki-Zo community. Among them were:
– President of Hmar Inpui, Dr. David Buhril, a noted academic and tribal rights advocate, Chairman of the Zomi Council, and President, Kuki Inpi Manipur, representing the Kuki-Zo Council, President of the United Zou Organisation, Delegates from the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Kangpokpi were also participate in the meet.
While the meeting was a positive step, deep-seated tensions remain. The Meitei and Kuki communities have clashed over competing claims to land, resources, and political rights, with the violence displacing thousands and leaving scars across Manipur’s social fabric.
Sources indicate that the Centre is considering a multi-pronged approach, including:
-Enhanced security measures to prevent further flare-ups
– Economic rehabilitation packages for displaced families
-Mediated sub-committees to address specific grievances from both sides
Despite the challenges, Saturday’s dialogue signals a rare moment of engagement between the two communities after months of hostility. Political analysts suggest that sustained mediation, coupled with confidence-building measures, could pave the way for a fragile but crucial peace process.
As the Centre prepares for follow-up discussions, all eyes remain on whether this initiative can translate into tangible progress—or whether Manipur’s cycle of violence will persist.
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