Manipur Chief Minister Engages with Zomi Organizations Amid Ongoing Ethnic Tensions
Meeting with Zomi Delegation
On Friday, a delegation representing three major Zomi organizations from Churachandpur district in Manipur met with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The Chief Minister assured them that the government is committed to finding a peaceful, inclusive, and lasting resolution to the ethnic conflicts in the state through ongoing dialogue with all parties involved.
According to an official statement, the 14-member delegation included representatives from the Zomi Council, the Unified Zomi Organization (UZO), and the Zomi Chiefs Association. They convened at the Chief Minister's office located in Imphal.
This meeting was significant as it marked the first time since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023 that representatives from these three organizations came together in Imphal to engage with the Chief Minister. The statement highlighted that this gathering symbolizes the improving law and order situation in the state and the gradual restoration of movement between communities.
Zomi Community Background
The Zomi community consists of various tribes primarily residing in Churachandpur district, sharing ethnic and linguistic ties with the Kuki community. During the meeting, Singh reiterated the government's commitment to fostering peace, maintaining harmony among all communities, and creating conditions conducive to restoring normalcy.
Women’s Organization Protests
Meanwhile, members of a women's organization staged a protest on Friday to discuss several pressing issues, including the current law and order situation, and demanded an immediate session of the Manipur Assembly. The protest was held in front of the assembly premises by members of the Imagi Meira organization.
Sujata Thokchom, the president of Imagi Meira, told reporters, "We are calling for an assembly session to address various state issues, including the current law and order situation and a proposal regarding 'Operation Suspension.'"
She emphasized that all members of the assembly, regardless of their party affiliation, should come together for this session. Sujata added, "So far, no decisions have been made by the assembly to save the state."