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Manipur CM Holds First Talks With Kuki-Zo Council Since 2023 Violence

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh held the first formal meeting with the Kuki-Zo Council since the ethnic violence erupted in May 2023. The council raised issues including tensions with the Tangkhul community, the need for justice for victims, and maintaining buffer zones until a political settlement. The Chief Minister outlined government measures to restore order but the meeting concluded without any concrete decisions or agreements. The violence, triggered by demands for Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community, led to significant casualties, displacement, and the imposition of President's Rule.

Key Points: Manipur CM Meets Kuki-Zo Council After 2023 Ethnic Clashes

  • First govt-council meet since 2023 violence
  • Focus on justice for conflict victims
  • Call to maintain buffer zones
  • SoO talks progress needed
3 min read

CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh holds first meeting with Kuki-Zo Council since 2023 ethnic violence in Manipur

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh holds first meeting with Kuki-Zo leaders since 2023 Manipur violence, discussing justice and buffer zones.

"accountability is required for any peace process - Kuki-Zo Council"

Guwahati, March 22

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh held a meeting with leaders of the Kuki-Zo Council in Guwahati, marking the first engagement between the state government between the state government and the council since the outbreak of ethnic violence in 2023.

The meeting, held in Assam, began at 7 PMon Saturday and continued for about one hour and 45 minutes, the Manipur government said in an official statement.

The government described the interaction as an initial engagement after nearly three years of conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The discussion focused on issues raised by the Kuki-Zo Council, which were presented before the Chief Minister during the session.

The Kuki-Zo Council delegation raised concerns related to tensions between the Kuki and Tangkhul communities and called for steps to address the situation. It also placed emphasis on ensuring justice for those affected by the conflict, stating that accountability is required for any peace process.

The delegation further highlighted the need to maintain the buffer zone until a political settlement is reached.

The council also referred to the ongoing Suspension of Operations (SoO) talks and called for steps to complete the process. It said that progress in these discussions is necessary to move towards stability in the region.

The Chief Minister responded by outlining measures taken by the government to restore order. He also acknowledged the council's decision to attend the meeting and engage in dialogue. The government stated that the meeting was held as part of efforts to address the situation in the state.

The meeting concluded without any decisions or agreements, according to the official statement.

Violence in Manipur began on May 3, 2023, following protests linked to demands for Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community. Clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups led to loss of lives, displacement, and damage to property. Security forces were deployed, and restrictions were imposed in several districts.

Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned amid the situation, following which President's Rule in Manipur was imposed on February 13 last year. The central rule was extended by Parliament in August and again in December.

On February 4, Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as Chief Minister, with Ajay Kumar Bhalla administering the oath at Lok Bhavan in Imphal. Senior legislators Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers.

The Union Home Ministry has also extended the term of a Commission of Inquiry examining the 2023 violence, directing it to submit its report by May 20.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally, some dialogue! This conflict has gone on for too long, disrupting lives and the economy of the entire Northeast. Holding the meeting in Guwahati was a smart move for a neutral ground. Hope this leads to more regular talks and a roadmap for peace.
R
Rohit P
The fact that the meeting concluded without any decisions is disappointing, though not surprising. The issues are complex. The buffer zone must be maintained strictly to prevent further flare-ups while talks continue. The Centre also needs to play a more active role.
S
Sarah B
As an outsider following this, it's heartbreaking. The emphasis on justice and accountability from the Kuki-Zo Council is crucial. No lasting peace can be built without addressing the trauma and losses suffered by all communities. The Commission of Inquiry's report will be vital.
V
Vikram M
Respectfully, I have to say the state government's response seems reactive rather than proactive. President's Rule was needed, but now with a new CM, there must be a clear, time-bound plan. "Initial engagement" after so much violence feels like too little, too late. The SoO talks need to be concluded urgently.
N
Nisha Z
This is a ray of hope for Manipur. Both sides showing up for talks is itself a big achievement. Jai Hind! Let's hope wisdom prevails and our brothers and sisters in Manipur can live in harmony again. The new leadership has a huge responsibility.

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