Guwahati/Imphal: In a significant step towards restoring peace in violence-hit Manipur, the state government and representatives of the Kuki-Zo community held an “ice-breaking” meeting, marking the first formal peace outreach between the two sides since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023.
The meeting, held in Guwahati on Saturday, brought together Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and members of the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the apex body representing the community. The interaction was described as a preliminary confidence-building exercise aimed at reducing mistrust between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
According to statements released after the meeting, the discussions were largely exploratory in nature and intended to open channels for dialogue after nearly three years of conflict. Community representatives raised several concerns, including the need to reduce tensions between different ethnic groups and ensure justice for victims affected by the violence.
The ethnic clashes that began on May 3, 2023, between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo tribal communities resulted in widespread violence, hundreds of deaths, and the displacement of thousands of people, severely disrupting normal life in the northeastern state.
Observers consider the latest meeting an important initial step toward reconciliation, although officials acknowledged that much work remains before lasting peace can be achieved. Both sides are expected to continue engagement through further dialogue aimed at addressing humanitarian concerns and rebuilding trust.
