IMPHAL, May 1: Kuki-Zo student organisations in Manipur have called on all Kuki inhabitants to observe May 3 in silence to mark the second anniversary of the Manipur ethnic conflict.

The Zomi Students’ Federation (ZSF) and Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) issued a joint appeal for the day to be observed in silence. “May 3, 2025, marks the completion of two years of the outbreak of the ethnic strife, and we urge all to observe the day in silence by closing all educational institutions and business establishments,” the organisations said in their statement.

The violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which began in May 2023, has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands. The conflict has deeply affected the state, leading to the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh and the imposition of President’s Rule. The Manipur Legislative Assembly, whose term extends until 2027, has been under suspended animation since the political upheaval.

In addition to the shutdown, the student bodies have urged residents to hoist black flags at their homes as part of the observance. A mass prayer will be held at the Martyrs’ cemetery, and a public gathering is planned at the Wall of Remembrance in Churachandpur district headquarters. The organisations are calling on the public to participate in these events to remember the victims and reflect on the impact of the ongoing conflict.

The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) had previously declared May 3 as “Separation Day” to mark a time of mourning and reflection. In a statement, the ITLF emphasised, “There will be a day of reflection and remembrance for the victims of the ethnic conflict that has deeply impacted the Kuki-Zo communities.” The forum has organised prayers, speeches from tribal leaders, and keynote addresses as part of the observance.

Meanwhile, in the Imphal valley, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a civil society group representing the Meitei community, has also called for the suspension of activities on May 3. The group is organising a public convention at Khuman Lampak stadium to discuss the future of Manipur, underlining the ongoing division between the two communities.

The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) has also announced that May 3 will be observed as a “solemn day of remembrance and solidarity.” The theme for this day will be Bridging Divides for a Shared Future, focusing on healing and reconciliation across communities in the state.