Guwahati, March 21: A significant step has been taken to address the long-standing ethnic unrest and violence in Manipur. The Manipur government has sent a formal invitation to the Kuki-Zo Council for peace talks with the Chief Minister. According to a letter issued by the Chief Minister’s office on March 17, 2026, the meeting is scheduled to take place on March 21, 2026, in Guwahati, Assam.
The letter is addressed to the council’s president, Henlianthang Thanglet. It states that the primary objective of the meeting is to discuss key issues related to restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur. Since May 2023, the state has been grappling with ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, resulting in over 250 deaths and the displacement of more than 60,000 people. The Chief Minister has requested the presence of the council president and other members, seeking confirmation of their participation in the meeting.
This initiative is seen as part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to engage stakeholders and enhance dialogue. After the formation of the new government, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has emphasized the need for peace restoration. Recently, several efforts have been made at both the central and state levels, including agreements with Kuki and Hmar groups in Assam. However, the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur remains adamant about demanding separate administration or a Union Territory. The council has previously rejected several government proposals, but this invitation marks the first opportunity for direct dialogue at the Chief Ministerial level.
Since the outbreak of violence in Manipur, isolation has increased in Kuki-Zo areas, where members of the Meitei community cannot venture, and vice versa. The Chief Minister recently stated that inter-community trust restoration is key to achieving peace. If the Guwahati meeting is successful, it could lead to progress on trust-building and reopening roads and highways. The council’s response is awaited, as they have previously sought written commitments from the central government.
Leave a Comment