Assam Rifles Orchestrates Crucial Peace Dialogues Between Naga and Kuki Communities in Manipur
In a significant move to de-escalate tensions and promote stability, the Assam Rifles organized a series of high-level security coordination meetings with civil society organizations (CSOs) and village authorities representing the Naga and Kuki communities across sensitive districts of Manipur. According to an official statement released on Saturday, these engagements aimed to foster peace and restore normalcy in the region.
Open Dialogue at Shalluk in Chandel District
The first pivotal meeting was convened at Shalluk in Chandel district, where representatives from eight Naga CSOs and seven Kuki CSOs engaged in frank and open discussions with Assam Rifles personnel. This gathering was strategically organized against the backdrop of prevailing tensions between the two communities, highlighting the urgent need for constructive communication.
During the proceedings, Assam Rifles officials strongly emphasized the critical importance of unity, restraint, and proactive cooperation. They underscored the necessity to combat the spread of misinformation and to implement measures that would prevent any further escalation of conflicts. In response, CSO representatives actively shared their perspectives, concerns, and practical suggestions, collectively stressing the imperative for sustained dialogue and shared responsibility to rebuild trust and strengthen inter-community relations.
Expanded Discussions in Ukhrul and Kamjong Districts
Building on the initial dialogue, the Assam Rifles facilitated further interactions at Chassad in Ukhrul district and Somsai in Kamjong district. These sessions specifically focused on assessing and addressing the security situation in Litan and its surrounding areas, which have been particularly volatile.
These expanded meetings saw robust participation from representatives of five Kuki CSOs, seven Naga CSOs, along with village authorities and prominent community leaders. The discussions were meticulously centered on several key objectives: preventing any potential escalation of violence, actively curbing the dissemination of harmful rumours, enhancing coordination mechanisms between stakeholders, and ensuring the robust protection of all civilians, irrespective of community affiliation.
Commitment to Impartiality and Humanitarian Values
Across all meetings, the Assam Rifles consistently reiterated its unwavering commitment to operating with complete impartiality and upholding core humanitarian values. Officials affirmed the force's dedication to safeguarding all communities without any bias, positioning itself as a neutral facilitator in the peace process. The engagements concluded on a notably positive and collaborative note, with all participating stakeholders unanimously reaffirming their resolve to work together cohesively. This collective commitment is firmly anchored in the larger interest of ensuring lasting security, stability, and holistic development for the region.
The proactive initiative by the Assam Rifles to bridge divides through structured dialogue marks a crucial step towards healing and reconciliation in Manipur, setting a precedent for conflict resolution through community engagement and mutual understanding.
