Signs of peace in Manipur

It is to be hoped that the renewed talks with the tribal groups and the PM's visit will lead to fresh polls being called

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The green shoots of peace are finally visible in Manipur after two years of violent conflict between two ethnic groups, the Kukis and the Meiteis, that led to the deaths of more than 250 people and the displacement of hundreds, many of whom are still living in relief camps.

Ahead of the expected visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Manipur on September 13, the centre inked a tripartite pact with the Manipur government and the Kuki-Zo council, the apex body of the Kuki-Zo communities.

The KZC also agreed to reopen National Highway 2 from the Imphal valley to Nagaland, which had remained closed for the Meiteis since the beginning of the violence in May 2023.