Manipur in Focus: Key Developments on April 2, 2025
Kuki-Zo Groups Issue Strict Conditions for Ceasefire Ahead of Crucial Delhi Talks
Kangpokpi, April 2, 2025 - In a significant development prior to a scheduled meeting in Delhi on April 5th, the Kuki-Zo leadership in the Sadar Hills region of Kangpokpi district has declared three non-negotiable preconditions for any cessation of hostilities with the Meitei community. These conditions, announced during a consultation meeting organized by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), include a complete halt to the movement of Meitei individuals in Kuki-Zo-dominated areas and vice versa, the initiation of meaningful and structured dialogue during any ceasefire period, and the observance of a six-month ceasefire upon the fulfillment of the first two conditions. Additionally, they are demanding the immediate removal of Manipur police and state forces from their areas, the deployment of neutral central forces, and a written assurance of safety from the Government of India . The upcoming meeting in Delhi, facilitated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is now under greater scrutiny given these firm demands.
BJP Strategizes on Delimitation, Voices Census Concerns
Imphal, April 2, 2025 - Following the Supreme Court's directive to complete the delimitation process in Manipur within three months, BJP legislators and key party officials convened a closed-door meeting in Imphal on April 1st. A 13-member committee has been unanimously formed to closely monitor all developments related to the delimitation exercise and to effectively communicate the party's stance to the Central Government. A key point of discussion was the reliability of the 2001 Census data, with concerns raised about abnormal population growth in some districts, suggesting the need for a review before delimitation proceeds.
Meitei Alliance Urges PM Modi to Prioritize Security and NRC Before Delimitation
Imphal, April 2, 2025 - The Meitei Alliance, a global consortium of Meitei diaspora organizations, has made a strong appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the central government to prioritize the restoration of law and order and the updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur before proceeding with the delimitation exercise . In a detailed memorandum submitted to the Prime Minister, the Alliance expressed concerns that the Supreme Court's three-month timeframe for delimitation could disrupt fragile peace efforts if security and demographic concerns are not addressed first . Their demands include immediate action against those instigating violence, abrogation of Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements with Kuki militant groups, and a comprehensive update of the NRC in Manipur .
Bangladesh Official's Remarks on Northeast India Spark Outrage
Guwahati, April 2, 2025 - Controversial remarks made by Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor of Bangladesh's interim government, during a visit to China have drawn sharp criticism from political leaders across India's Northeast . Yunus reportedly described India's northeastern states as "landlocked" and suggested that Bangladesh could serve as the "guardian of the ocean" for the region, potentially facilitating Chinese economic expansion . Leaders like Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh have strongly condemned these statements as "offensive," "shameful," and "provocative," raising concerns about the strategic implications for the region and national security .
Other Developments:
- Manipur University's Computer Science Department is developing an AI model for early flood warning with a high efficiency rate.
- Amidst the demand for a separate administration, Kuki-Zo leaders are reportedly exploring a new political front, the Kuki National Council (KNC), likely to replace the Kuki People's Alliance (KPA).
- Former Minister Mathibo Thohrii has cautioned that a hasty delimitation based on faulty census data would marginalize all indigenous people of Manipur.
- The Imphal Riding Club won the 3rd Chittamohini State Women's Cup-2025. Manipur emerged as the team champions at the 15th Junior, Masters and Divyang Bodybuilding Championships. ESU Hustlers won the Asmita City 3x3 Basketball League title. Athletes from the Manipur Yoga Society won 10 medals at the 10th World Yogasana Championship.
AFSPA Extension in Manipur:
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been extended for another six months in Manipur, effective from April 1, 2025, excluding certain police station areas . This decision by the Ministry of Home Affairs indicates continued security concerns in the state .
Judicial Efforts:
A delegation of five Supreme Court judges recently visited Imphal to assess the situation, emphasizing the role of the Constitution in restoring peace. Judges from both the Supreme Court and the Manipur High Court have also visited relief camps in both Meitei and Kuki-Zo dominated areas.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, with political and social dynamics heavily influenced by the ongoing ethnic conflict and the impending delimitation process. The outcome of the April 5th meeting in Delhi is highly anticipated.