Manipur Peace Talks Stalled Over Kuki Community’s Demand for Separate Hill State
In the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, peace negotiations have reached an impasse due to the Kuki community’s firm demand for a separate hill state. This development has further complicated efforts to resolve the ongoing ethnic tensions between the Kuki and Meitei communities.
The Kuki Inpi, the traditional governing body of the Kuki people, was revitalized in 1993 to protect the interests of the Kuki community amid ethnic conflicts. In July 2023, the Kuki Inpi Manipur formally called for the creation of a separate state for the Kuki people, invoking Article 3 of the Indian Constitution.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), representing the Kuki-Zo community, has been vocal in its demand for a separate administration. In June 2024, the ITLF escalated this demand to seeking a union territory with a legislature for the Kuki-Zo people, stating that coexistence under a Meitei-dominated government was no longer viable.
These demands have been met with resistance from Meitei organizations, notably the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). Formed in 2019, COCOMI is an umbrella body of Meitei civil society organizations dedicated to preserving the territorial integrity of Manipur. The organization has consistently opposed any division of the state, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its historical boundaries.
The ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 has resulted in over 250 deaths and the displacement of approximately 60,000 individuals. Despite multiple rounds of peace talks and temporary truces, clashes have persisted, particularly in regions like Jiribam, where incidents as recent as November 2024 have disrupted fragile peace efforts.
The Indian government, led by Interior Minister Amit Shah, has acknowledged the complexities of the situation and is actively engaged in dialogue with both communities. In September 2024, Shah expressed hope for a resolution but underscored that mutual understanding between the ethnic groups is crucial for lasting peace.
The insistence on a separate hill state by the Kuki community remains a significant obstacle in the peace process. The challenge lies in reconciling this demand with the Meitei community’s commitment to maintaining Manipur’s territorial integrity. As negotiations continue, the path to peace will require addressing the aspirations and concerns of both communities to achieve a sustainable resolution.
