Government, State, and Kuki-Zo Council Agree on Terms for Peaceful Relations Prior to PM Modi's Arrival in Manipur

In the northeastern state of Manipur, tensions have been running high for over two years. The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has refrained from visiting the state during this period and also abstained from campaigning during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The root of the unrest can be traced back to a High Court order directing the Manipur state government to recommend to the tribal affairs ministry that the Meiteis be accorded Scheduled Tribe status. This court directive sparked protests, leading to a tribal solidarity march and subsequent violence.

The ethnic fault lines in Manipur were exacerbated, resulting in a communal conflict that left many dead and caused destruction. The situation was so severe that it led to President's rule being imposed in Manipur in February 2025.

However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. The Union Home Ministry and the Manipur government have signed a Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact with Kuki-Zo insurgent groups. This pact is part of a larger tripartite agreement with the Kuki-Zo council, which includes the reopening of National Highway 2 from Imphal Valley to Nagaland. The Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA) ethnic leadership group of the Kuki-Zo communities has expressed their consent for this reopening.

The SoO pact also includes the verification of cadres and the de-listing of foreign nationals, if any, as per the agreement. The SoO groups, such as the Kuki National Organisation and the United People’s Front, had been demanding a separate administration or union territory along with a legislature.

The ethnic conflict in Manipur has also affected the BJP's outreach in the state. The Opposition, especially the Congress, has been vocal in its criticism of the centre and state for their failure to contain the situation. The communal conflict has seen the rise of Hindutva elements among the Meiteis, resulting in hundreds of churches being vandalized.

As the situation in Manipur begins to stabilize, there are signs of renewed talks with tribal groups. The hope is that these talks will lead to fresh polls being called and an elected government taking over. Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit Manipur on September 13, which could be a significant step towards restoring peace and normalcy in the state.

The horrific incidents of rape and murder reported during the communal conflict serve as a grim reminder of the devastating impact of ethnic and religious tensions. It is hoped that with the signing of the SoO pact and the Prime Minister's upcoming visit, a path towards reconciliation and healing can be found.

Government, State, and Kuki-Zo Council Agree on Terms for Peaceful Relations Prior to PM Modi's Arrival in Manipur