More than three years after violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, peace remains elusive. Thousands continue to live in relief camps, highways have only partially reopened, and communities remain physically and psychologically separated. What began as an ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities has expanded into a wider crisis, with recent violence affecting Naga villages and exposing the fragile security situation across the state.
In this bleak landscape, the meeting between representatives of the United Zou Organisation (UZO), Zomi Chiefs’ Association (ZCA) and Zomi Council with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has generated cautious optimism. Dialogue, however delayed, is always preferable to silence. But whether this engagement represents the beginning of reconciliation or merely another symbolic exercise depends entirely on what follows.
One aspect of the meeting deserves particular attention. Throughout the recent tensions between Kuki and Naga communities in parts of Manipur, several Zomi leaders publicly maintained that the dispute was not between the Zomi and the Naga people. By distancing themselves from the conflict, they projected an identity and political position distinct from that of organisations directly involved in the confrontation.
The same approach now appears to be reflected in their engagement with the Manipur Government. Their decision to meet the Chief Minister suggests that sections of the Zomi leadership see value in political dialogue rather than prolonged isolation. If that assessment is correct, it offers an opportunity that should not be squandered.
Yet optimism alone cannot erase the hard realities of the past three years.
A dominant public perception in Manipur, particularly in the valley and among many affected communities, is that armed Kuki militant groups played a major role in escalating the violence that began in May 2023. Subsequent incidents in Naga-inhabited areas have reinforced concerns about the influence of armed groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement. These allegations have shaped public opinion and deepened distrust, even as responsibility for specific incidents continues to be investigated by security agencies.
Regardless of differing political narratives, one fact is difficult to dispute: the continued presence and influence of armed groups have made reconciliation far more difficult. Where weapons dominate, moderate voices are often drowned out. Political dialogue struggles to succeed when communities continue to live under fear and uncertainty.
This is why the Imphal meeting should be judged not by photographs or press statements but by measurable outcomes.
If the Zomi organisations genuinely seek peace, they are in a unique position to demonstrate it. They can publicly support the reopening of all roads without intimidation, facilitate humanitarian access, encourage dialogue across communities and, most importantly, support the safe, voluntary and dignified return of every displaced family to their original homes. Peace cannot be selective. It must apply equally to Meitei, Kuki, Zomi, Naga and every other community displaced by the conflict.
Equally important is the question of accountability. Durable peace requires that those responsible for serious crimes—irrespective of ethnicity, political affiliation or organisational backing—face the due process of law. Impunity only prolongs conflict and undermines public trust.
The State and Central Governments also have responsibilities they can no longer postpone. They must move beyond crisis management and present a clear roadmap for restoring normalcy. This includes rebuilding confidence between communities, ensuring freedom of movement throughout the state, strengthening law enforcement against armed violence, and creating conditions for displaced people to return safely.
The people of Manipur have heard countless appeals for peace over the past three years. What they now seek is evidence that peace is becoming possible.
The meeting between the Chief Minister and the Zomi organisations may have opened a narrow window. Whether that window widens into a genuine peace process will depend on courage from all sides. If dialogue is accompanied by concrete steps that reject violence, uphold the rule of law and restore the rights of every displaced citizen, it could become a turning point. If not, it risks becoming another missed opportunity in a conflict that has already cost Manipur far too much.
