GG News Bureau
Imphal, 18th Nov. A delegation of 10 political parties has urged Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey to initiate peace talks between the two warring communities in the state.
The delegation, led by Congress Legislature Party leader and former chief minister O Ibobi Singh, submitted a memorandum to the governor on Friday evening.
They emphasized that peace cannot be restored in the state without the intervention of the Centre, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The delegation demanded immediate peace talks with the two communities to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict.
The delegation met with the governor after the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), a group representing the Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur, threatened to establish a separate administration in areas where these tribes have a majority.
The state government strongly condemned this call and deemed it illegal.
The delegation urged Governor Uikey to approach the prime minister and initiate a dialogue with the conflicting communities.
They also appealed to the governor to facilitate a meeting of all political parties in Manipur with the prime minister to address the conflict under his leadership.
The delegation included representatives from various political parties.
Governor Uikey assured the political leaders that she would take steps to ensure a dialogue process with the two communities and bring back peace and normalcy in the state.
She also mentioned that she has submitted reports about the unrest and is in touch with central leaders.
Manipur has experienced recurring violence since May, with over 180 people killed. The clashes have arisen from various grievances between the two sides, including the issue of granting Meiteis Scheduled Tribe status and the displacement of tribals living in protected forest areas.
Meiteis make up 53% of Manipur’s population and reside in the Imphal valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40% and live mainly in the hill districts.
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