Why Manipur Must Choose Peaceful Co-Existence

THE fragile fabric of peace in Manipur has been stretched to its absolute limits once again. In a deeply worrying cycle of mutual suspicion, the Naga community recently claimed that six of their people are being held captive by Kuki groups, while the Kukis counter-claimed that fourteen of their own members are missing under Naga custody. This growing distrust erupted into open unrest on 29 May at Shangkai village in Ukhrul district, where a peaceful Kuki protest turned violent after security forces intervened. What should have been an opportunity for dialogue instead became a chaotic clash, reminding us how quickly anger can take over when trust is completely broken.

Tragically, the day’s violence claimed the life of an innocent truck driver from West Bengal, a working-class man caught in a conflict that was not his own. Adding fuel to the fire, the Manipur Police issued an unusually direct press note on the same day, pointing the finger squarely at Kuki militants for the deadly ambush. In a region where official statements are usually carefully guarded to avoid worsening ethnic divides, this sudden shift to public blame marks a dangerous departure. The situation grew even more critical the very next day on 30 May, when the Kuki-Zo village of Kharam Vaiphei was burnt down. This rapid spread of unrest shows that when authorities abandon neutrality, it never brings justice; it simply hardens hearts and deepens the sense of victimhood on all sides.

Amidst this rising heat, the Kuki-Zo community held a nationwide peaceful protest rally on 30 May. They demanded justice for three Kuki pastors killed in an ambush on 13 May, and sought the immediate release of the fourteen Kukis allegedly held hostage by the Nagas. However, a vital glimmer of hope emerged from the leadership. The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and Joint Kuki-Zo Civil Society Organisations announced that, following intensive discussions with the government on 29 and 30 May, they acknowledge the positive outcomes and assurances given to safeguard their people. As a gesture of goodwill and cooperation to maintain law and order, KIM temporarily suspended the total shutdown across Kuki-Zo inhabited areas.

This suspension is a highly welcome move and a mature gesture from the Kuki leadership. It shows that even in moments of deep grief and anger, the path of dialogue and restraint remains possible. The only meaningful and long-lasting solution for Manipur lies in peaceful co-existence and mutual harmony. Leaders from both the Naga and Kuki communities must step back from the brink, look beyond past grievances, and sit down to talk. Peace is not a sign of weakness; it is a brave choice that requires far more courage than picking up a weapon. For the sake of innocent lives and a better tomorrow, it is time to choose understanding over hostility. Peace is the only road left that leads home. 

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 31.05.2026

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