First Talks Held Between New Manipur Govt and Kuki-Zo Groups

In a significant development, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), along with the Manipurgovernment, has resumed dialogue with Kuki-Zo insurgent groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) framework.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

• The talks were held in New Delhi on May 1, 2026
• This marks the first round of dialogue after the new government led by Yumnam Khemchand Singh assumed office on February 4
• The meeting was led by Ajit Lal and attended by senior officials, including representatives from the Intelligence Bureau

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Background of the SoO Pact

• The Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement was first signed in 2008
• It involved:
  • United Peoples’ Front (UPF)
  • Kuki National Organisation (KNO)
• Covers 24 insurgent groups
• The agreement was renegotiated in September 2025 during President’s Rule

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Main Issues Discussed

1. Relocation of Camps

• Government proposed shifting 7 out of 14 SoO camps
• Kuki-Zo groups agreed to consolidate camps to 12 locations
• Aim:
  • Reduce friction with local populations
  • Improve security management

2. Security Concerns

• Kuki-Zo groups raised concerns over ongoing violence in Ukhrul district
• Alleged:
  • Continued threats to Kuki civilians
  • Burning of villages in recent weeks
• Called for:
  • Immediate security intervention
  • Confidence-building measures

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Political Demands

The Kuki-Zo groups reiterated a key demand:

• Creation of a Union Territory with legislature for hill areas

They stated that returning to the previous status quo is no longer acceptable.

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Allegations Raised

The groups also alleged:

• Lack of accountability in handling past violence
• Failure to arrest those responsible for attacks on:
  • MLAs
  • Government officials
  • Civilians

They cited incidents across multiple districts, including:

• Bishnupur district
• Imphal East
• Imphal West
• Thoubal
• Jiribam

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Current Situation

• Fresh tensions have been reported since early April
• At least 11 people have been killed in recent incidents
• Violence has affected both:
  • Valley areas like Bishnupur
  • Hill districts like Ukhrul

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Why This Matters

• These talks signal a renewed attempt at dialogue after months of stalled engagement
• The involvement of the new state government adds political weight to the process
• However, deep mistrust, security concerns, and political demands remain major challenges

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Bottom Line

The resumption of talks is an important step, but lasting peace in Manipur will depend on sustained dialogue, credible security measures, and addressing long-standing political grievances from all sides.