Security forces were deployed outside the residence of Henlianthang Thanglet, chairman of the Kuki-Zo Council, on Monday after a group of local youths allegedly attempted to storm his house. The situation was brought under control after timely intervention by security personnel, who dispersed the crowd and prevented escalation.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions following a recent meeting between Yumnam Khemchand Singh and KZC leaders held in Guwahati. The meeting, which lasted around one hour and 45 minutes, marked the first formal engagement between the state government and the council since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in 2023.
The talks have drawn mixed reactions, particularly from several valley-based civil society organisations, which opposed holding the dialogue outside Manipur. Some groups have also expressed reservations over engaging in talks with the state government altogether.
Tensions escalated further after the Guwahati meeting, with reports of the attempted attack on Thanglet’s residence triggering a security clampdown. Additional forces have since been stationed in the area as a precautionary measure.
According to an official statement, the Guwahati meeting was described as an initial step towards dialogue after nearly three years of ethnic tensions between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The KZC delegation raised concerns over inter-community tensions, sought justice for victims of the violence, and called for continuation of buffer zones until a political resolution is reached. The delegation also urged expediting the ongoing Suspension of Operations (SoO) process.
Responding to these concerns, the Chief Minister outlined steps taken by the government to maintain law and order and acknowledged the council’s willingness to engage in dialogue. However, no decisions or agreements were reached, with discussions remaining at a preliminary stage.