CM Khemchand’s Kuki-Zo Talks Spark Peace Optimism

Breaking a three-year deadlock, Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s discreet Guwahati rendezvous with Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has been welcomed as a solid foundation for peacebuilding. Describing it Sunday as a ‘good beginning,’ Singh spotlighted its role in reviving normalcy and trust post-Meitei-Kuki-Zo clashes.

The marathon 1:45-hour huddle on Saturday scrutinized state issues and governmental peace drives. Pressed on separatist calls, Singh invoked Delhi’s red line on territorial sanctity. He’s consistently championed ‘forgive and forget’ since taking helm on February 4.

KZC’s readout called it an ‘ice-breaking session,’ flagging urgencies like Kuki-Tangkhul détente, justice delivery, buffer preservation pending political resolution, and speeding up operation halts for enduring calm.

Singh laid out his blueprint, shared worries, reiterated pledges, and lauded KZC’s engagement amid adversity. Ending without accords, it sets stage for sequels.

Preceded by a March 17 outreach letter, this fulfills early promises. With Manipur reeling from deadly unrest since 2023—displacements, deaths, economic hits—dialogue is indispensable. Experts anticipate ripple effects, urging comprehensive pacts on core disputes like ST status and admin setups. Singh’s gambit could unify a polarized state, fostering resilience and progress.