IMPHAL: In a significant development after nearly three years of ethnic conflict, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh held his first meeting with leaders of the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) in Guwahati, Assam, describing the engagement as an initial step toward addressing the deep trust deficit between communities in the State.
The meeting, was described as largely an “ice-breaking session.” During the interaction, the KZC delegation raised key concerns, including the urgent need to de-escalate tensions between Kuki and Tangkhul communities and the importance of ensuring justice for victims as a prerequisite for any meaningful peace process.
The Council also stressed maintaining the sanctity of the buffer zone until a political settlement is reached and called for expediting the ongoing Suspension of Operations (SoO) talks to secure long-term peace in the region.
Responding to the engagement, the Chief Minister appreciated the KZC’s initiative in coming forward for dialogue during a challenging period. He reiterated that the government’s decision to hold talks is aimed at reducing mistrust and bridging divides between communities.
Speaking to the media later while inspecting the Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Khuman Lampak in Imphal, Singh emphasized that the talks marked “a good beginning,” noting that the Council had agreed to engage after a prolonged period of conflict. He maintained that fostering trust remains a priority for restoring normalcy.
Addressing concerns over the situation in the State, Singh clarified that there is no officially designated buffer zone, though certain sensitive areas have been identified. He also reiterated that Manipur, home to 36 communities, would remain intact, urging people to “forgive and forget the past” in pursuit of a peaceful future.
On the demand for a separate administration, the Chief Minister cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that Manipur’s territorial integrity would not be compromised, stating that the matter had already been made clear at the highest level.
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He further noted gradual improvements in law and order, particularly along the Imphal-Ukhrul Road, while acknowledging that movement on National Highway 2 (Imphal-Kohima Road) remains limited due to lingering fear among the public.
The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, stating that the ISBT at Khuman Lampak which was non-functional for a long period, has been upgraded under the guidance of the Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla during the President’s Rule, with further improvements planned through the Public Works Department.
The meeting concluded without any formal agreements or decisions, but both sides signaled a willingness to continue dialogue, raising cautious optimism for future engagement.