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MHA Holds Talks with Kuki-Zo and Meitei Groups Amid Ongoing Manipur Highway Blockade

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) engaged in separate discussions with Kuki-Zo and Meitei civil society groups in Manipur on March 11 and 12, amid continued highway blockades by Kuki-Zo groups following the recent violence on March 8. The meetings aimed to address ongoing tensions in the strife-torn state and implement a 13-point action plan to restore normalcy.

On March 11, A.K. Mishra, Adviser, MHA (Northeast), along with other officials, met representatives of the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), Zomi Council, and the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) in Churachandpur. Delegates from Kangpokpi, Chandel, Pherzawl, and Jiribam also participated in the discussions. The meeting, which lasted three hours, primarily focused on the March 8 violence in Kangpokpi that resulted in the death of a local protester. Other topics included district-specific concerns and the tribal bodies' demand to restrict vehicle movement.


Despite extensive discussions, no concrete resolution was reached as both sides remained firm in their positions. "The leaders stood by their stand, and so did MHA officials, leading to an inconclusive meeting," stated a Kuki-Zo representative. Protesters continued blocking National Highways 2 and 37 for the fourth consecutive day, disrupting the movement of commercial vehicles.

Meanwhile, the last rites of Lalgouthang Singsit, the protester killed during the March 8 violence, were scheduled for March 13. However, Kuki-Zo groups have not announced any decision to lift the highway blockade, adding to the logistical challenges in the region.

On March 12, MHA officials met with Meitei civil society groups, including the Federation of Civil Society (FOCS), All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO), and the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) in Imphal. The delegation was briefed on the government’s road map for restoring peace and stability in the state.

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following months of unrest. Ethnic violence has claimed over 250 lives since clashes erupted on May 3, 2023. The ongoing tensions and disruptions continue to pose challenges to governance, security, and the supply of essential goods.

 

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