Two Kuki-Zo MLAs physically attended a session of the Manipur Assembly in Imphal on Wednesday, marking the first in-person participation by legislators from the community since ethnic violence erupted in the state in May 2023. Haokholet Kipgen and Kimneo Haokip Hangshing were present during the first sitting of the eighth session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly.

Kipgen expressed happiness at returning to the Assembly after a prolonged absence. Other Kuki-Zo legislators had previously participated in Assembly proceedings virtually following the outbreak of violence, while Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen also joined the latest sitting through virtual mode.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh welcomed the physical presence of the two legislators and described it as a positive development for Manipur. He linked their return to the Assembly to efforts towards rebuilding trust among different communities and indicated that collective efforts could help the state move towards peace.

Also Read: Tricolour Hoisted For First Time In Nine Abujhmad Villages Of Chhattisgarh

Singh also reiterated the state government's focus on inclusive dialogue and reconciliation. He attributed the development to continued efforts to reduce the trust deficit between communities affected by the prolonged conflict, which has significantly disrupted political and social life in the state.

Manipur currently has nine Kuki-Zo legislators, although the community lost another elected representative earlier this year. Vungzagin Valte died after a prolonged illness linked to serious injuries he suffered during a mob attack in Imphal in the early days of the violence that began on May 3, 2023.

The ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities has resulted in more than 250 deaths and displaced an estimated 60,000 people. While no major incident between the two communities has been reported since early this year, intermittent violence involving Kukis and Nagas has continued since February, with deaths and property destruction reported in several incidents.

Also Read: Karnataka Cabinet Expansion: 20 Congress MLAs To Be Sworn In; GS Patil New Speaker