The Centre has taken a decisive step towards resolving the persistent ethnic tensions in Manipur by unveiling a comprehensive six-point resolution after high-level talks with Kuki-Zo leaders. This move follows months of unrest and sporadic violence that have severely disrupted life in the state. Senior officials from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs presented the roadmap during a closed-door meeting held in Delhi earlier this week. Leaders representing the Kuki-Zo communities participated actively and responded positively to the proposed framework.
The Home Ministry emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation of hostilities and restoration of trust among the communities. It sought to create an environment conducive to dialogue, healing, and eventual reconciliation between the Meitei and Kuki groups. The meeting, attended by key intelligence officers and interlocutors, focused on addressing the core grievances of the Kuki-Zo population while ensuring the integrity of the state’s territorial boundaries.
Home Minister Amit Shah directed his ministry to pursue the peace process with urgency and sensitivity. Officials conveyed the Centre’s willingness to continue engagement with all stakeholders and to provide constitutional safeguards wherever necessary. The resolution also included measures to address displacement and rehabilitation of families affected by the violence.
Leaders from the Kuki-Zo side expressed cautious optimism after the meeting. They welcomed the government’s recognition of their concerns and reiterated their commitment to peace. They also underscored the need for impartial administration of justice in cases of violence and property loss. Kuki youth representatives demanded greater security presence in vulnerable areas and appealed to the government to ensure non-political handling of the crisis.
In Manipur, the announcement has triggered mixed reactions. Civil society groups in the valley region have called for a balanced approach that includes consultation with Meitei organizations. Some Meitei leaders criticized the Centre for what they viewed as unilateral engagement with the hill communities. They argued that any resolution must include perspectives from both ethnic groups to ensure lasting peace.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh held a press briefing in Imphal following the Centre’s announcement. He urged citizens to remain calm and to support the peace process. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to facilitate reconciliation through open channels and confidence-building measures. The Chief Minister also confirmed that he remained in close touch with the Union government and had shared detailed feedback on the situation on the ground.
Observers believe that this latest peace initiative marks a significant policy shift by the Centre. For the first time since the conflict escalated in 2023, the government has acknowledged the political dimension of the Kuki-Zo demands. Analysts suggest that this move might open up space for more sustained and structured dialogue, possibly involving third-party mediation or the creation of peace monitoring committees.
Back in Delhi, political leaders across party lines have reacted cautiously. While the BJP leadership backed the Centre’s move as a necessary intervention, opposition leaders demanded greater transparency in the process. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh stated that any peace initiative must include a broad consultation framework and not appear to favor one community over another.
On the ground in Manipur’s hill districts, peace campaigners have started mobilizing local leaders and youth groups. They have urged communities to welcome dialogue and to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric or activities. Several religious and tribal organizations have also called for joint prayer sessions and peace marches in support of the resolution.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has indicated that follow-up meetings will continue in the coming weeks. It plans to invite Meitei civil society groups and youth leaders to join the conversation. The government aims to release a detailed implementation plan once all stakeholders submit their responses.
While the road to peace remains complex and fragile, the Centre’s six-point resolution signals a renewed determination to end the cycle of violence and restore harmony in Manipur. As the state watches closely, many hope that this initiative will mark the beginning of a long-overdue reconciliation process between its deeply divided communities.
The Centre has also emphasized the importance of community-level engagement to support the peace resolution. Officials have begun coordination with local civil society groups to initiate dialogues within affected regions. These grassroots conversations are expected to build mutual understanding and bridge communication gaps that have long fueled mistrust.
Meanwhile, educational institutions and religious leaders have expressed cautious optimism. Some schools in the conflict-prone districts have reopened with partial attendance, while churches and temples have held joint prayer services for harmony. Community elders believe this could be the beginning of healing, though they acknowledge that reconciliation will take time and patience.
Security forces have continued their vigilance in sensitive zones, but with a notable shift toward confidence-building rather than combative posturing. The Home Ministry has instructed paramilitary units to assist in humanitarian outreach, including medical camps and food distribution in remote areas. These actions reflect a larger shift in policy from enforcement to engagement.
In the political sphere, several tribal representatives have welcomed the Centre’s involvement but have called for direct representation in future negotiations. Leaders have urged the government to ensure equal weight for both Meitei and Kuki-Zo voices, warning that a perceived imbalance could derail progress. The Ministry of Home Affairs has responded by promising greater inclusivity in upcoming sessions.
Amid cautious hope, residents have begun sharing their own stories of loss and survival. Local media have highlighted stories of neighbors from rival communities offering support to each other during peak violence. These narratives have gone viral on social platforms, symbolizing the resilience of ordinary citizens and their yearning for peace beyond politics.