Manipur Peace Push: Centre Claims Kukis Agree to Free NH2 Movement Ahead of PM Modi's Visit

Days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit to Manipur on September 13, the Centre announced a major breakthrough in efforts to restore normalcy in the violence-hit state. The government claimed that Kuki civil society groups had agreed to allow free movement on National Highway-02 (NH2) — a key route connecting Kuki and Meitei-dominated areas. In a parallel move, the Centre also signed a new Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups, under which they would relocate camps away from Meitei-majority regions and uphold the territorial integrity of Manipur. If implemented, the decision could mark a significant turning point in the ethnic conflict that has gripped Manipur since May 2023, and would align with PM Modi’s first visit to the state since the unrest began. However, just hours after the Ministry of Home Affairs' announcement, the Kuki Zo Council (KZC) issued a clarification, stating that their cooperation should not be misinterpreted as an endorsement of unrestricted movement across buffer zones — indicating possible discord or misunderstanding around the terms of the agreement. As tensions remain delicate, all eyes are now on the implementation of these commitments and the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit.