Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma is likely to mediate upcoming peace talks between Kuki-Zo groups and the Manipur government, aiming to address the recent violence in the state. The move comes after Manipur’s Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, sought Lalduhoma’s assistance to facilitate dialogue with Meitei representatives.

Lalduhoma confirmed to Deccan Herald that Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh had requested his mediation services during a meeting at the NITI Aayog conference in New Delhi on July 28. Singh’s request for Lalduhoma’s assistance is attributed to the ethnic connections between the Kukis and the Mizos, with Kukis viewing Lalduhoma as a trusted figure.

The move is noteworthy since Kuki-Zo organizations have previously declined talks with Singh, a Meitei, due to accusations of his involvement in the conflict. Lalduhoma’s mediation is seen as a crucial step in addressing the deep-seated issues between the communities.

On August 1, Lalduhoma’s political advisor, Muanpuia Punte, visited the Kuki-majority district of Churachandpur in Manipur. During his visit, Punte attended a Kuki Village Volunteers event and held preliminary discussions with local leaders about potential talks. Despite this, there has been no formal invitation extended to Kuki-Zo groups by the central government yet.

In a related update, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has reiterated his administration’s commitment to resolving the conflict through dialogue. Singh reported in the state assembly that the government is actively pursuing peace talks, with several meetings held in Silchar, Assam. He characterized the recent violence as an “unexpected and unwanted turn of events” and affirmed the government’s resolve to achieve a peaceful resolution with the help of legislators and other key figures.