Peace Dialogue Between Kuki-Zo and Meitei Communities Enters Second Phase in Delhi

Imphal, April 5: In a follow up to the first round of formal peace talks on the ongoing Manipur crisis held in October 2024, representatives of the Kuki-Zo and Meitei/Meetei communities met for the second time today in New Delhi. The peace negotiations between the two warring groups was facilitated by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

As per sources, the talks commenced at 11 AM and concluded around 5 PM, marking the second phase of the peace process. This follows the first round of discussions on March 11 in Churachandpur, led by MHA’s Northeast Advisor P.K. Mishra along with Intelligence Bureau officials. On the following day, Advisor AK Mishra held meetings with Meitei organizations — AMUCO, FOCS, and COCOMI — at the Old Secretariat in Imphal.

Related | First Round of Peace Talks on Manipur Crisis Held in Delhi, Joined by Meitei, Kuki, and Naga MLAs

During these interactions, Meitei civil society groups expressed dissatisfaction with the Centre’s failure to implement Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directives on the Free Movement policy.

As per a statement shared exclusively to Manipur based television news outlet, Impact News prior to the Delhi talks, AMUCO President Nando Luwang reiterated that Meitei CSOs would only support the peace dialogue if it ensured an inclusive, peaceful resolution without compromising the territorial integrity of Manipur. He also criticized the Centre for its inaction in enforcing the Free Movement policy.

Following a lunch break, the afternoon session resumed at approximately 3:40 PM. Discussions centered on a unified agenda: disarming both sides, reopening all highways, providing economic support to affected areas, rehabilitating internally displaced persons (IDPs), and involving the Governor in long-term development strategies for the state.

Also read | Kuki-Zo Leadership Sets Three Preconditions for Ceasefire Ahead of April 5 Talks

The AMUCO team was represented by President Nando Luwang, Advisor Dhanabir Laishram, and Ito Tongbram, while the FOCS delegation was led by Acting President BM Yaima and Spokesperson Heisnam James.

The Kuki-Zo representatives included Hmar Inpui President Rev. Rose Infimate, Dr. David Buhril, Zomi Council Chairman N. Vumsuan Naulak and Secretary Pauneilal, Kuki-Zo Council Chairman Henlienthang, Kuki Inpi Manipur President Ajang Khongsai, United Zou Organisation President Thangzamang, along with delegates from CoTU, Kangpokpi.

It may be noted that the Kuki-Zo leaders had presented three preconditions for ceasing hostilities with the Meitei community on April 2.

Update on the 6 points discussed:
Appeal to their people to refrain from indulging in violence targeting members of the other community and urged the administration to take strong action against perpetrators of violence.

Appreciated steps taken by the Governor to facilitate deposit of arms and assured to extend all cooperation in this regard in future in order to instill a sense of security among the people.

Acknowledged the difficulties faced by the public on account of obstruction to free movement of traffic on national and state highways and urged the people to cooperate with the administration to normalize functioning of highways.

Decided to welcome any initiative by the government to facilitate return of internally displaced people to their respective places subject to logistics and security arrangements made by the government.

Appealed to the Governor to prioritise development activities in their areas which were neglected during the conflict.

Agreed that all long term and contentious issues will be taken up with GoI (MHA) for resolution through dialogue and consultation with the communities.