MANIPUR: The recent viral video from Manipur has once again brought the opposition together, prompting the center to seek ways to mitigate the state violence by engaging in dialogue with leaders from the Kuki and Meiti communities.
On Wednesday, Akshay Mishra, the IB official appointed by the central government for the Northeast, reportedly conducted talks with leaders of Kuki militant groups operating under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement. Additionally, there were discussions with representatives from the Coordinating Committee of Manipur Integrity (COCOMI).
As dissent among the opposition and neighboring states, especially Mizoram, continues to grow, Manipur's Chief Minister has made a clear statement urging Mizoram's CM, Zoramthanga, not to meddle in the internal affairs of another state. Recently, Zoramthanga participated in a rally expressing solidarity with the Kuki tribe amidst the ethnic violence in Manipur.
The central government has been involved in months-long mediation between the two communities, focusing on bringing peace to the state. Initial discussions before the May violence aimed for a political resolution. However, the current series of conversations between the center and the two communities are primarily centered on finding a solution to the ongoing violence in the state.
Impact of the current round of talks between the Centre and Meiti and Kuki community:
The ongoing round of talks is being closely monitored in terms of violent incidents in the state. There has been some reduction in the intensity of violence.
In a recent incident, nearly 30 houses were set ablaze by a mob in Manipur's Moreh district, near the Myanmar border. The houses were abandoned and located in the Moreh Bazar area. Furthermore, the mob partially burnt down the Forest Guest House at Moreh. Subsequently, a gun battle broke out between the attackers and security forces. Additionally, a few days ago, two security force buses were set on fire in Kangpokpi district.
Political situation in Manipur is at a stalemate:
As efforts continue to find a resolution to the violence in Manipur, a political solution to bridge the gap between the Meiti and Kuki communities remains at a standstill.
With no hope left from the state government, the Kuki community is demanding a separate administration, while the Chief Minister is leaning towards maintaining the status quo ante. Both situations have the potential to trigger another chain of violence in the state.
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