Imphal: In a powerful appeal for reconciliation, the World Meetei Council (WMC), a Manipur-based civil society organisation, has called upon both Meitei and Kuki legislators to rise above political divisions and take decisive responsibility for resolving the ongoing ethnic conflict that has plagued the state for over two years.
Acknowledging that “wrongs have occurred on both sides,” the WMC questioned how long the people of Manipur must continue to suffer. In a statement released after a central executive committee meeting held on Wednesday, the organisation stressed that the people—not politicians—are enduring the brunt of the crisis. It noted that the violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which erupted in May 2023, has claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands.
“The conflict has persisted for over two years and two months, with countless lives disrupted, families shattered, and communities divided,” the WMC said. “Despite several efforts, the Centre has not been able to bring about the desired resolution.”
The council issued a direct call to Meitei and Kuki MLAs, stating, “You have the people’s mandate. You must act. Engage with each other. Do not wait for external intervention. If our elected representatives do not act, then who will?” It underscored that a single, meaningful step could be the beginning of the journey toward normalcy.
The appeal comes at a time when Manipur remains under President’s Rule, imposed by the Centre on February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The state assembly remains in suspended animation, with its tenure extending until 2027.
The WMC further urged authorities to reopen the Imphal International Airport to all citizens and asked the Meitei community to take “moral and social responsibility to ensure safety for all who arrive, regardless of community.” It also called for national highways to be made accessible and safe for all, appealing to both Meitei and Kuki groups to guarantee violence-free passage for travellers.
Citing a recent example of communal solidarity, the WMC praised the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity for welcoming both Meitei and Kuki victims of the Ahmedabad air crash at Imphal Airport—a move the council described as “positive and symbolic.”
“We are destined to live together,” the council concluded. “Let time and collective effort show us the path to peace.”