Manipur CM Highlights Trust-Building Efforts Amid Ongoing Ethnic Tensions
Addressing Community Trust Issues
Imphal, Mar 22: On Sunday, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh of Manipur described the government's dialogue with the Kuki-Zo Council as a crucial initial step in mending the significant trust gap between the communities.
His comments were made during an inspection of the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Khuman Lampak, linking governance initiatives to the broader aim of restoring normalcy amid the ongoing ethnic strife.
Singh emphasized that the conflict stems from a lack of trust, noting that during a meeting with the council in Guwahati on Saturday, he learned that displaced individuals from both groups are eager to return home, although the current situation poses challenges.
“I regularly meet with internally displaced persons (IDPs) from both sides, and they all express a desire to go back. However, can security forces provide round-the-clock protection? That’s not practical,” he remarked.
Using Moreh as a case in point, the Chief Minister pointed out that without mutual understanding and trust, the processes of return and resettlement cannot be effectively maintained.
“Without rebuilding trust, the Meiteis cannot return to Moreh, and the Kukis cannot go back to Imphal. Addressing this trust deficit is paramount,” he stated.
He noted that the commencement of talks signifies a positive development after nearly three years of stagnation.
“We have initiated the process of addressing the trust deficit. It was not conducive for the Kuki representatives to come to Imphal, so we agreed to meet in Guwahati. This initiation is a very encouraging sign,” he added.
Reaffirming the government's stance, Singh clarified that there is no concept of 'buffer zones,' although certain areas have been marked as sensitive due to ongoing security issues.
Regarding the call for a separate administration, he echoed the Centre's viewpoint, asserting that the matter has already been resolved.
“The Prime Minister has made it clear that the territorial integrity of Manipur will remain intact. There’s nothing further to discuss,” he stated.
Singh also pointed out that Manipur is home to 36 different communities and urged for reconciliation. “Let us forgive and forget the past for a brighter future,” he encouraged.
When asked about travel along National Highway-2 (Imphal–Kohima Road), Singh confirmed that movement has resumed but remains limited due to ongoing public apprehension.
“People are traveling, but in smaller numbers. The fear persists because of the trust deficit. Therefore, rebuilding trust is my top priority,” he explained.
He mentioned that there has been noticeable improvement in law and order along the Imphal–Ukhrul road.
Recent developments indicate a dual approach, focusing on administrative recovery while cautiously engaging politically, as the state seeks to overcome prolonged instability.
However, with the trust deficit still deeply rooted and the return of IDPs unresolved, the effectiveness of the peace process will hinge on whether dialogue leads to safe mobility, resettlement, and enhanced inter-community confidence.