Ahead of the April 5 peace talks in New Delhi, Kuki leaders in Manipur have outlined three key preconditions for a ceasefire with the Meitei community. The talks, organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs, aim to address the ongoing ethnic conflict that has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands since May 2023.
During a consultation meeting held in Kangpokpi by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), the Kuki leadership emphasized the following demands:
- Restricted Movement: Movement between Meitei and Kuki-Zo-dominated areas must be strictly limited to prevent further hostilities.
- Six-Month Ceasefire: A minimum six-month cessation of hostilities is required to facilitate meaningful negotiations.
- Structured Dialogue: A formal and well-organized dialogue process must be initiated during the ceasefire period.
Henlianthang Thanglet, Chairman of the Kuki-Zo Council, stated that these conditions are essential for creating an environment conducive to peace. The ethnic violence, rooted in historical tensions and disputes over land ownership, escalated after protests against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
The central government has made multiple attempts to mediate between the warring communities, including imposing President’s Rule in February 2025. The upcoming talks are seen as a critical step toward resolving the crisis, but the Kuki leadership’s firm stance underscores the challenges ahead.
As the date approaches, all eyes are on the negotiations, which hold the potential to bring much-needed stability to the region.
