Manipur Tensions Ease: Hmar, Zomi Leaders Call For Peace In Churachandpur After Curfew Imposed Following Tribal Clashes

The Hmar Inpui and Zomi Council, the apex bodies representing the Hmar and Zomi communities, have agreed to lift the shutdown in Churachandpur district following a joint meeting convened by the district administration, reported The New Indian Express.

This decision comes after violent clashes between the two tribal groups led to the imposition of a curfew on Monday (17 March) as a precautionary measure.

In a joint statement, the Hmar Inpui and Zomi Council appealed for calm and urged people to refrain from any actions that could disrupt normal life. 

They also pledged to work together for lasting peace and security in the region.

The curfew was imposed following the assault of a Hmar tribal leader on Sunday, which triggered violent confrontations. Groups from both communities engaged in vandalism and clashes, prompting authorities to enforce strict measures.

Last week, the national highways passing through the hill districts of Manipur were reopened as the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) community ended its protest after the funeral of a protestor who lost his life in the violent confrontations on 8 March.

Manipur has been grappling with severe ethnic violence since May 2023, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups, resulting in over 250 deaths and mass displacement. 

The unrest led to the imposition of President’s Rule on 13 February, following the resignation of former Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The state assembly has remained under suspended animation since then.

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