Imphal: The eighth session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly commenced Wednesday, marked by the historic physical return of Kuki-Zo legislators for the first time in over three years.
Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen and Saikul MLA Kimneo Haokip Hangshing attended the opening day in person, defying an explicit boycott directive from the apex community body, Kuki Inpi Manipur.
Concurrently, Kangpokpi MLA and Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen joined the proceedings virtually.
Kuki-Zo representatives had completely boycotted Imphal-based sessions since ethnic violence erupted, later participating only via video link during the March 2026 budget session.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh welcomed the physical attendance, calling it a positive step toward normalcy, unity, and peace. He credited his administration’s persistent efforts to bridge the inter-community trust deficit and reiterated a commitment to inclusive dialogue.
As he entered the Manipur Legislative Assembly, Haokholet Kipgen said he was happy to come back to attend the Assembly after a long time.
The three-sitting session is scheduled to conclude on September 7, with the state’s security situation dominating the legislative agenda.
It may be recalled that following the formation of the new BJP government under the leadership of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on February 4, 2026, Kuki-Zo MLAs had participated in previous Assembly sittings through virtual mode.