IT News
Imphal, April 4:
A delegation from All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) and the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), Manipur, has left Imphal today for Delhi to participate in a crucial peace dialogue initiated by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The meeting, scheduled for tomorrow, is part of the Centre’s efforts to mediate between the Kuki and Meitei communities amid the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur.
The AMUCO delegation comprises President Nanda Luwang, along with senior advisors Ito Tongram and Dr. Dhanabir Laishram. Another team from FOCS, which has been actively advocating for the interests of the Meitei community, has also confirmed its participation in the talks. Their involvement signals the community’s willingness to engage in discussions while also addressing concerns regarding the preconditions reportedly set by the Kuki representatives ahead of the dialogue.
The talks come at a critical juncture, as tensions continue to persist in Manipur following months of ethnic unrest. The Centre, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been facilitating multiple rounds of discussions in an attempt to bridge the gap between the warring communities. While previous attempts at negotiations have faced challenges, this meeting is being seen as a significant step toward de-escalation and a possible long-term resolution.
Sources indicate that key issues expected to be discussed include demands related to territorial integrity, security concerns, the ongoing blockade of national highways, and the demand for a separate administration raised by Kuki representatives. AMUCO and FOCS, have repeatedly asserted that any negotiations must be held without preconditions and that the ongoing extortion, blockades, and militant activities must cease before meaningful dialogue can take place.
The Centre has assured that it remains committed to bringing peace to Manipur and has urged all stakeholders to engage in discussions with an open mind. With both AMUCO and FOCS representing the Meitei side in the negotiations, the outcome of tomorrow’s meeting is expected to have significant implications for the future of the conflict resolution process in the state.