Ahead of PM Narendra Modi's Manipur Visit, Kukis agree to open NH 2

In a major breakthrough, the Kuki civil society groups have agreed to to reopen National Highway-2 (NH-2), which is called the backbone of everyday life in Manipur. After long discussions with the central government, the Kuki-Jo Council has announced that now the movement of people and essential goods on this highway will be without any obstruction.

This is considered as the major breakthrough towards restoring peace in Manipur. This highway was closed for the last few months due to tension between the Meitei and Kuki-Jo communities in Manipur, affecting the supply of essential goods.

Kuki-Jo Council has now promised to open this route in collaboration with the Central Government, so that the people of Manipur get relief.

Decision was Made after Talks with the Centre

Several rounds of talks were held between the Kuki-Zo Council and Home Ministry officials in New Delhi. The aim of these meetings was to reduce tension in Manipur and resume the supply of essential goods.

The Home Ministry issued a statement saying, "The Kuki-Jo Council has promised to maintain peace on NH-2 in collaboration with the security forces deployed by the Government of India."

NH-2 connects Manipur with Nagaland and other parts of the Northeast. Movement on this highway was halted due to the Meitei-Kuki tension which started from May 2023.

This tension not only led to violence, but thousands of people were rendered homeless and forced to live in relief camps. Now with the opening of this highway, it is expected that the supply of essential goods will increase and people living in relief camps will get help.

All About the Tripartite Agreement

Along with this, a tripartite agreement was also signed between the Home Ministry, Manipur Government and Kuki National Organization (KNO) and United People's Front (UPF).

This agreement was called 'Suspension of Operations (SoO)', which sets out new terms and conditions. This agreement will be in force for one year.

The agreement emphasizes on maintaining the territorial integrity of Manipur and finding a negotiated solution for peace. Also, the KNO and UPF have promised to remove their seven camps from the conflict areas, deposit weapons in CRPF and BSF camps and check foreign nationals.