4 Sep 2025: Imphal – Kuki civil society groups have agreed to open National Highway-02 for free movement of people and goods in Manipur after successful talks with the Central government. The decision comes just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the state since ethnic violence began in May 2023.
The Kuki-Zo Council made this important decision after several meetings with Home Ministry officials in New Delhi. The council has promised to work with security forces to keep peace along the highway.
New Agreement Signed with Militant Groups
The Centre also signed a fresh one-year agreement with Kuki militant groups. The Suspension of Operations pact with Kuki National Organisation and United People’s Front includes new rules. The old agreement had ended in February 2024 during the state’s ethnic troubles.
Under the new terms, the groups must respect Manipur’s borders and work for peaceful solutions. They will move seven camps away from conflict areas and reduce the total number of camps. All weapons must be kept at nearby CRPF or BSF camps.
The groups must also check their members carefully to remove any foreign nationals. A Joint Monitoring Group will watch closely to make sure everyone follows the rules.
Highway Opening Brings Hope
National Highway-02 runs through Kangpokpi district and is a main route in and out of the state. This road saw violence on March 8 when one person died during clashes with security forces.
The Kuki-Zo Council has asked people in Kangpokpi to help security forces keep the highway safe. They want Central forces to protect travelers and trucks carrying essential items.
“The Kuki-Zo Council appeals to the public in Kangpokpi district to cooperate with the security forces,” the council said in its statement.
Prime Minister Modi will visit Manipur on September 13, marking his first trip since the Meitei-Kuki conflict started. The opening of free movement is seen as an important step toward bringing peace back to the troubled state.
The government is also setting up camps for Valley-based UNLF militants who signed a peace deal in November 2023. ID cards for these members are being prepared.
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Updated 4 Sep 2025, 15:24 IST; source: link
