AIZAWL: Mizoram chief minister Lalduhoma is expected to mediate between Kuki-Zo organizations and the government, as well as with groups representing the Meitei community, to facilitate peace talks in Manipur.
Mizoram CM Lalduhoma confirmed Deccan Herald that Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh had recently approached him to act as a mediator in discussions with Kuki-Zo community representatives.
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While Lalduhoma did not disclose further details, sources in Manipur informed Deccan Herald that Singh made the request during their meeting on the side-lines of the NITI Aayog meeting in New Delhi on July 28.
This development is significant as Kuki-Zo organizations have consistently refused to engage in talks involving Manipur CM N Biren Singh, a Meitei, whom they accuse of being involved in the ongoing conflict.
Singh’s appeal to Lalduhoma stems from the ethnic ties between the Kukis and the Mizos, with many Kukis viewing the Mizoram CM as a trusted leader.
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Moreover, Mizoram CM Lalduhoma’s political advisor, Muanpuia Punte, visited the Kuki-dominated Churachandpur district in Manipur on Thursday (August 01).
Punte attended a function of Kuki Village Volunteers and held informal discussions with some leaders regarding the proposed talks.
Notably, a leader of a prominent Kuki-Zo organization in Manipur told Deccan Herald that, as of now, they have not received any formal invitation for talks from the Centre.
Manipur violence: Government pursuing peace talks, assures CM
Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh announced that the state government is actively working towards peace talks, having conducted several meetings at Silchar in Assam.
Speaking at the state assembly, Manipur CM N Biren Singh stated that the government is committed to dialogue and collaboration.
Manipur CM Biren Singh said: “We are making immense efforts towards peace talks with the assistance of MLAs and other members. Meetings have been held in Silchar, and we will soon make an announcement.”
While the Manipur chief minister did not provide specific details about the participants in the discussions, he characterized the recent violence in the state as an “unexpected and unwanted turn of events”.