Guwahati: The 8th session of the 12th Manipur assembly commenced on Wednesday in Imphal, marked by a significant development as legislators from the Kuki-Zo community attended the session in person since ethnic strife erupted in the state over three years ago.
Haokholet Kipgen, MLA of Saitu assembly constituency, and Kimneo Haokip Hangshing, MLA of Saikul assembly constituency, were physically present during the first sitting of the session. Kipgen said he was happy to return to attend the assembly after a long time.
Read more: Kuki MLAs attend Manipur Assembly session for first time since ethnic strife eruption
Deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen attended the session virtually.
Chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh welcomed the move, describing it as a positive step towards fostering unity and peace in the state. "This is a good sign from people's representatives, and it is a welcome step," he said. Singh said that with collective efforts, Manipur can strive to walk the path of peace. Reiterating his administration's commitment to inclusive dialogue and reconciliation, the CM attributed the development to the state government's persistent efforts to address and reduce the trust deficit among various communities.
Read more: Centre defers Manipur census; Kukis oppose 'NRC before census' call given by Meiteis, Nagas
Later, the chief minister moved a resolution reaffirming the House's earlier resolutions of August 5, 2022, and March 1, 2024. The resolution urged the Government of India to update the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur before conducting the Census, in the interest of the state and the nation.
Earlier, Kuki Inpi Manipur had issued a firm directive to all Kuki-Zo MLAs to refrain from going to Imphal to attend the 8th session of the Manipur assembly, pending a political settlement of the community's demand for a separate administration.
The KIM had said that the participation of Kuki-Zo MLAs in the assembly, at a time when the fundamental political question concerning the future of the Kuki-Zo people remains unresolved, would be inconsistent with the collective political position and aspirations of the community.
