KANGPOKPI, April 2: With ethnic tensions still gripping Manipur, the Kuki-Zo leadership has set three preconditions ahead of the crucial April 5 talks in New Delhi with Meitei representatives, convened by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The move comes amid continued violence between the two communities, which has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands since May 2023.
The Centre imposed President’s Rule in Manipur on February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. While efforts are being made to restore peace, deep-rooted concerns from both Kuki-Zo and Meitei groups continue to pose significant challenges to reconciliation.
These conditions were formulated during a high-level consultation meeting at the KBC Centre Church Hall in Kangpokpi, organized by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU). The gathering included representatives from prominent Kuki-Zo organizations, student bodies, women’s groups, and tribal intellectuals.
Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) chairman Henlianthang Thanglet outlined the three conditions, which are as follows:
- No Cross-Movement – The movement of Meitei individuals in Kuki-Zo-dominated areas and vice versa shall be strictly restricted to prevent further violence.
- Structured Dialogue – A formal and meaningful dialogue process must be initiated during the ceasefire period to ensure constructive engagement.
- Six-Month Ceasefire – Hostilities shall be halted for a minimum period of six months to create an environment conducive to negotiations.
