Manipur is approaching the fourth year of the conflict that erupted on May 3, 2023. Despite changes in political leadership and repeated assurances of restoring normalcy, violence, displacement and mistrust continue to haunt the state. The conflict has entered different phases, but the suffering of ordinary people remains unchanged. The biggest question is how long Manipur must continue to endure this painful situation.
From May 2023 to February 9, 2025, under former Chief Minister N. Biren, the state witnessed prolonged violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The subsequent period of President’s Rule brought a relative lull, raising hopes for peace. However, the formation of a new government under Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand on February 4, 2026, has yet to bring the expected normalcy. Instead, another disturbing dimension of tension has emerged between the Kuki and Naga communities.
The reported targeting of innocent civilians and killing of drivers have added another tragic chapter to the crisis. Growing divisions among the Meitei, Kuki and Naga communities are becoming increasingly visible. Every innocent life lost deepens resentment and makes reconciliation more difficult. Manipur cannot afford another cycle of violence.
The government’s recent engagement with civil society organisations representing the Kuki and Naga communities is a welcome beginning. The Chief Minister’s visit to a Kuki-dominated district is also a positive humanitarian gesture. However, such initiatives must develop into sustained dialogue and concrete confidence-building measures. Symbolic visits alone cannot restore peace.
The government must not lose direction. The continued disruption of both National Highways has severely affected transportation, trade and economic activities. Thousands of people depend on these lifelines for their livelihoods. Restoring safe and uninterrupted movement must therefore be an immediate priority.
As Diwali and Ningol Chakouba approach, the suffering of thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) remains a painful reminder of the unfinished crisis. While many families prepare to celebrate with loved ones, displaced families continue to live with uncertainty.
A recent visit to the Akampat relief camp left a disturbing impression. Makeshift bamboo shelters covered with plastic sheets resembled a miniature slum. Behind these fragile structures are families who have lost their homes, livelihoods and sense of security. How long must they continue to live under such conditions?
During the initial outbreak of violence, MLAs, ministers and Central leaders frequently visited affected areas and relief camps. Today, the hardships of displaced families require much greater attention. Temporary relief cannot be a permanent solution. The government must provide dignified shelter and a clear roadmap for resettlement.
December will bring Christmas celebrations for Christian communities, including the Naga and Kuki populations. Christmas symbolises love, forgiveness, hope and togetherness. But what about the displaced families? Will they also celebrate the festival with dignity, or will another festive season pass inside relief camps?
Are we gradually living in two separate worlds within the same state? One celebrates festivals and looks towards the future, while another remains trapped in uncertainty, waiting to return home.
Chief Minister Khemchand and his government must demonstrate political courage by initiating a comprehensive peace-building process involving the Meitei, Kuki and Naga communities. Civil society organisations, women’s groups, youth organisations and other stakeholders must be included. No community should feel excluded from the dialogue.
The government must ensure civilian safety, bring those responsible for violence to justice, restore highway connectivity and revive economic activities. Above all, it must establish a time-bound rehabilitation and resettlement plan for displaced families.
Peace cannot be achieved through security measures alone. It requires mutual understanding, political commitment, accountability and the willingness to rebuild broken relationships.
The Chief Minister has an opportunity to make history by bringing divided communities closer. The government must move beyond routine administration and take meaningful steps to restore public confidence.
Manipur has suffered enough. Its people have mourned enough. Children deserve to grow up without fear, and displaced families deserve to return home with dignity.
The people of Manipur are not asking for another political promise. They are asking for peace, security and the right to live together again. The government must take the first step. The time for peace is now.