Manipur: Kuki Zo Council Appeals For Peace; Assam Rifles Holds Peace Meetings With Naga And Kuki CSOs.

Imphal; May 2026: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) today (Friday – 22nd May 2026) has issued a public appeal for peace, harmony and peaceful coexistence amid rising tensions in Manipur, calling on all communities, armed groups and authorities to exercise restraint and prevent further escalation of violence.

In a statement titled “Appeal for Peace” dated May 22nd, 2026, the KZC said the appeal was made in pursuance of resolutions adopted during a Leaders’ Consultative Meeting held at KIC Hall in Tuibuong, Churachandpur. “At this sensitive and critical juncture, we firmly believe that dialogue, mutual respect, and reconciliation must prevail over violence and confrontation”, the statement read, adding that lasting peace could only be achieved through cooperation, understanding and collective responsibility.

According to the council, the meeting was attended by leaders of various tribes, chief’s associations, church forums, philanthropic groups, MLAs and Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups. The KZC stated that participants unanimously resolved to work towards peace, understanding and peaceful coexistence at a time when “unity and restraint are most needed”.

Appealing to community leaders, churches and responsible citizens, the organisation urged all sections of society to come together in safeguarding innocent lives and preventing any further deterioration of the situation. The council has also appealed to all armed groups and individuals to respect the sanctity of human life and uphold the values of peace and humanity.

In a significant appeal amid the ongoing hostage crisis in Manipur, the KZC urged all concerned parties to hand over all hostages, “whether alive or dead”, to the appropriate authorities and concerned families without delay. The statement further called upon the government and security agencies to act impartially, ensure the safety and security of civilians and sincerely work towards restoring normalcy, trust and confidence among the people.

In a significant move to optimise peace, brotherhood – yesterday (21st May 2026), Assam Rifles, in coordination with Kangpokpi Police, and, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), organised a security meeting with Kuki and Naga Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at New Keithalmanbi Police Station in Manipur, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peace and communal harmony in the region.

The meeting witnessed participation from representatives of Kuki and Naga CSOs along with officials from Assam Rifles, Kangpokpi Police and CRPF. During the interaction, participants held discussions on prevailing security concerns, maintenance of law and order, communal harmony and the importance of peaceful coexistence amid the ongoing tensions in the state. Officials said the meeting concluded on a positive note, with all participants expressing their commitment to collectively work towards peace, stability and harmony in the region.

In a separate initiative yesterday, Assam Rifles also organised a Civil Society Organisation meeting at Kaimai in Tamenglong district. The meeting was attended by 25 representatives, including village leaders, youth members, police officials and civil administration representatives from both Naga and Kuki communities. Discussions at the Kaimai meeting focused on maintaining peace and harmony, preventing the spread of rumours, discouraging support to armed cadres and ensuring smooth movement along National Highway-37, a crucial lifeline route in the state.

Representatives from both communities reportedly affirmed that the area remains peaceful and assured continued cooperation with authorities in maintaining stability and preventing further escalation of tensions.

These meetings are part of broader confidence-building measures being undertaken by security agencies and civil authorities in Manipur to encourage dialogue, coordination and community participation in maintaining law and order amid the prevailing situation in the state.

Officials emphasised the importance of community cooperation and mutual trust in ensuring long-term peace and stability across conflict-affected areas of Manipur.

Team Maverick.