In a significant development, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) engaged in a crucial meeting with the Government of Manipur, led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, in Guwahati. This marked their first formal interaction in almost three years, occurring against the backdrop of ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The meeting, lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily served as an ice-breaking session aimed at initiating dialogue after a prolonged period of conflict.
Key issues were raised by the KZC delegation, particularly the urgent need to de-escalate tensions between the Kuki and Tangkhul communities. They emphasized that achieving justice for the victims of the conflict is essential for establishing a meaningful peace process. The KZC also highlighted the importance of maintaining the sanctity of buffer zones until a political resolution can be reached, advocating for swift advancements in the ongoing Suspension of Operations (SoO) talks to foster lasting peace and stability in the region.
In response to these concerns, Chief Minister Khemchand outlined the steps his government has undertaken to restore normalcy in Manipur. He expressed gratitude for the KZC’s willingness to initiate dialogue during this challenging period. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the meeting concluded without any formal decisions or agreements, indicating that much work remains to be done in addressing the intricate issues at hand.