2 Kuki-Zo MLAs attend Manipur House session, first since ethnic conflict began

Two Kuki-Zo legislators returned to the Manipur legislative session, marking the first attendance since ethnic conflict erupted in 2023. Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen and Saikul MLA Kimneo Haokip were the only two Kuki-Zo MLAs present, unlike their peers who stayed away due to security concerns. Earlier, three Kuki-Zo MLAs, including Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, attended the last session virtually in February.

The Manipur Assembly comprises 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs out of a total of 60. Kipgen expressed happiness upon returning to the Assembly after a three-and-a-half-year hiatus. Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh welcomed their participation, viewing it as progress towards unity and peace. The Chief Minister attributed this development to the state government's efforts to bridge the trust deficit among communities, emphasizing their commitment to inclusive dialogue and reconciliation.

However, Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of Kuki tribes, urged Kuki-Zo MLAs to skip the session until their demand for a separate administration is addressed.