Historic Peace Talks Held Between Meitei and Kuki Leaders in Delhi

New Delhi: In a landmark step towards restoring peace in Manipur, leaders from the Meitei and Kuki communities sat together for the first time since the ethnic violence broke out in May 2023. The meeting, held in New Delhi, was facilitated by the Union Home Ministry and marked a significant shift from previous dialogues, which were conducted separately with the two communities.

The meeting aimed to find an amicable solution to the year-long conflict and focused on rebuilding trust, improving cooperation, and outlining a roadmap for peace and normalcy in the state. Discussions emphasized the importance of law and order and reconciliation between the warring groups.

The Meitei side was represented by a six-member delegation including members from the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) and the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), led by Pehroijam Nando Luwang and BM Yaima, respectively.

The Kuki-Zo side had a seven-member delegation with key leaders from multiple organizations, including Zomi Council Chairman N. Vumsuan Nauluk, Kuki Inpi Manipur President Ajang Khongsai, Kuki-Zo Council Chairman Henlenthong Thanglet, and others.

Retired Intelligence Bureau Special Director A.K. Mishra, acting as the Centre’s interlocutor, led the government’s delegation. The peace initiative follows earlier separate meetings held by the Ministry of Home Affairs with both communities, as disclosed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the Lok Sabha.