In a significant move toward de-escalating tensions in Manipur, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has agreed to reopen National Highway-02 for the free movement of essential goods and commuters. The decision was announced by the Union Home Ministry (MHA) after a series of meetings in New Delhi between MHA officials and a KZC delegation. The council has also pledged to fully cooperate with the security forces deployed along the crucial highway.
The highway, which serves as a vital link connecting Manipur to Nagaland and the rest of the Northeast, had been blocked since ethnic tensions erupted in the state in May 2023. The MHA’s statement said, “Kuki-Zo Council has given a commitment to cooperate with security forces deployed by the Government of India to maintain peace along NH-2.”
A Step Towards Restoring Normalcy
The conflict, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, has resulted in widespread violence, a loss of life, and the displacement of thousands, creating a profound humanitarian crisis. The reopening of this essential lifeline is seen as a key step in building confidence and alleviating the hardships faced by displaced families and civilians living in relief camps.
In a separate but related development, a tripartite meeting was also held in New Delhi on Thursday between representatives of the MHA, the Government of Manipur, and the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF). The meeting culminated in the signing of a renewed Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement with new ground rules, effective for a period of one year.
The revised agreement reaffirms “the territorial integrity of Manipur and the need for a negotiated solution to bring lasting peace and stability.” Additionally, the KNO and UPF have agreed to several new provisions, including:
- Relocating seven designated camps away from conflict-prone areas.
- Reducing the total number of designated camps.
- Relocating weapons to the nearest CRPF and BSF camps.
- Allowing stringent physical verification of cadres to de-list any foreign nationals.