The Government of India has introduced a six-point resolution roadmap during recent peace talks between Meitei and Kuki communities. The long-standing ethnic unrest, which erupted into widespread violence in May 2023, has left deep scars on the social and political fabric of the northeastern state. The Centre’s latest intervention signals a renewed effort to bring about reconciliation and stability after nearly two years of unrest.
The peace talks, held in New Delhi, were attended by key representatives from both the Meitei and Kuki groups, alongside officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs. With Union Home Minister Amit Shah closely monitoring the developments, the dialogue culminated in the unveiling of a carefully crafted six-point resolution aimed at ending hostilities and paving the way for long-term coexistence.
Understanding the Conflict
Manipur’s ethnic divide primarily lies between the valley-dwelling Meiteis and the hill-residing Kuki-Zomi tribes. The conflict, which initially stemmed from disputes over Scheduled Tribe status for Meiteis, escalated into violent clashes, resulting in over 200 deaths, thousands displaced, and widespread destruction of homes and public infrastructure. The violence also deepened mistrust and created physical segregation between communities.
Amid these tensions, previous attempts at mediation faltered due to mutual suspicion and a lack of effective policy response. The latest round of peace talks, however, marks a departure from previous efforts, as it involved structured negotiation, broader representation, and a clear roadmap for reconciliation.
The Six-Point Roadmap to Peace
The government’s six-point resolution includes the following key proposals:
- Immediate Cessation of Hostilities: Both communities have been urged to observe a total ceasefire. Security forces will play a proactive role in preventing further clashes and maintaining peace on the ground.
- Withdrawal of Paramilitary Encroachments: To de-escalate tensions, the Centre plans a phased withdrawal of additional paramilitary forces from civilian areas, while ensuring adequate security remains in place.
- Joint Peace Committees: Local-level peace committees comprising equal representation from Meitei and Kuki communities will be established to facilitate dialogue and resolve disputes at the grassroots level.
- Rehabilitation of Displaced Persons: The roadmap emphasizes safe return and rehabilitation of displaced families, with central assistance for rebuilding homes, schools, and healthcare infrastructure in affected areas.
- Socio-Economic Development Package: A special economic development package is being proposed to benefit both communities. This will focus on employment, education, and infrastructure to reduce economic disparities and foster interdependence.
- Constitutional and Administrative Safeguards: The Centre has committed to reviewing existing laws and administrative boundaries to address fears of marginalization. Provisions to protect the identity, land, and autonomy of both communities are under consideration.
Reception and Challenges Ahead
Initial reactions from both sides have been cautiously optimistic. Kuki civil society organisations have welcomed the focus on rehabilitation and constitutional safeguards, while Meitei leaders have appreciated the promise of economic development and joint decision-making. However, deep-rooted mistrust still lingers, particularly regarding the withdrawal of forces and boundary reassessments.
Experts caution that while the roadmap is a positive step, its success depends heavily on consistent implementation, transparency, and continued dialogue. Political will, both at the state and central levels, will be crucial. Manipur’s BJP-led government has yet to publicly commit to all aspects of the resolution, raising questions about cooperation at the state level.
Moreover, the absence of a clear timeline for implementation could hamper progress. Critics argue that without deadlines or a neutral monitoring agency, the peace process might lose momentum, as seen in previous efforts.
A Fragile Hope for Manipur
Despite the challenges, the six-point resolution marks one of the most structured and inclusive attempts by the Centre to address the ethnic strife in Manipur. It acknowledges the complexity of the conflict while offering a pathway rooted in mutual respect and equity. If implemented sincerely, this peace initiative could set a precedent for resolving ethnic conflicts in other northeastern states.
As Manipur stands at a crossroads, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether this fragile hope can blossom into lasting peace. For now, the people of Manipur—both Meitei and Kuki—wait for words to turn into action and for wounds to finally begin healing.
