The centre has yet again firmly rejected the demand for creation of 'new territories' in terms of bifurcation of Manipur but the centre remains "sensitive" to the demands of the Kuki-Zo people for further engagement with empathy.
"While A K Mishra (advisor, north east) clarified that the Government of India’s “current” policy does not favor the creation of new Union Territories, his assurance that the Centre remains sensitive and open to ongoing dialogue signals a "shift" towards engagement and empathy.
"It demonstrates that the Kuki-Zo issue is no longer being viewed as just another political demand, but as a unique national challenge requiring a humane and innovative solution," sources said.
"In essence, the current developments point to a turning point in the peace process. The acknowledgment of Kuki-Zo aspirations at the negotiation table, the willingness to continue talks, and the recognition of ground realities - all reflect that the Centre has begun to take cognizance of the depth and legitimacy of our cause," says Dr Chinkholal Thangsing from Lamka.
"Our responsibility now is to sustain this momentum—to strengthen our documentation, maintain unity of purpose, and communicate our narrative of peace, justice, and coexistence grounded in truth and constitutional values," he said.
These are seen as positive indications and hence the road ahead "may be long, but for the first time, the horizon is beginning to open with hope and reason".
Officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) held two-day parleys with the Kuki-Zo representatives under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) framework.
This marked a significant and encouraging milestone in the long and difficult journey of the Kuki-Zo people. For the first time, apparently the Centre has substantively engaged on the core political aspiration of the Kuki-Zo community.
"From my in-depth discussion with senior counsellors and policy observers from the mainland who have been closely following the crisis, there is a clear understanding that the plight of the Kuki-Zo people stands apart from other regional or ethnic demands," Dr Chinkholal says.
During his visit to Manipur on Sept 13th, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also suggested in probably in as many words that 'inclusiveness' is the only way to pull out the violence-hit state.
The trust between Meiteis and Kukis is all time low in the contemporary history with people from either sides are unable to each other fiefdoms - like Imphal on one side and Churachandpur on the other side.
Modi called Manipur ... a 'land of Mani (gems)'.
** This is the best 'inclusive' way to move ahead when divisions between Kukis (Zo people) are so sharp and bitter with the Meiteis. Left to Modi -- he would have called Manipur -- a Gem-pur
... that's 'a Land of Gems'
“I appeal to all organisations to move forward on the path of peace, fulfill your dreams, and secure the future of your children" - the Prime Minister had said.
The violence between Meiteis and Kukis and Zos left more than 70,000 people displaced and over 250 people were killed.
A panel of experts said they were especially concerned that the violence seems to have been preceded and incited by hateful and inflammatory speeches.
According to the 2011 census, Manipur is 41.29 percent Christian, mostly tribal people - Kuki-Zo people and Nagas while 41.39 percent are Hindus mostly Meiteis.
ends
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