Centre's dialogue key to resolution: Nishikanta
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 05 2025: Retired Lieutenant General Nishikanta Singh has welcomed the Central government's recent initiative to launch a structured dialogue between the Meetei and Kuki communities in Manipur, calling it "the need of the hour" and a critical first step toward ending the nearly two-year-long ethnic conflict that has devastated the state.

In an exclusive interview with The People's Chronicle, the former Army officer said the move could mark the beginning of a long but necessary journey toward peace, noting that even small steps in dialogue can lay the groundwork for broader reconciliation.

He emphasised that no solution can be achieved without direct negotiations between the two communities, which have historically coexisted in the region.

While acknowledging the complex political, economic, and cultural factors underlying the conflict, he said that the immediate priority should be to reduce the suffering of ordinary people by opening communication channels and building consensus.

The ethnic violence, which broke out on May 3, 2023, has caused widespread destruction, loss of life, and displacement.

Nishikanta stressed that a peaceful resolution would require recognising the legitimate grievances of both communities and fostering trust through sustained mediation.

"Trust-building is essential for any meaningful dialogue," he said, adding that only through open communication can both sides feel heard and understood.

He noted that solutions ignoring the historical experiences and sentiments of either community would risk deepening resentment.

Instead, he argued, dialogue must create a space for each group to voice its concerns and aspirations.

"Without such engagement, misunderstandings and stereotypes will persist, especially in this era of unchecked social media narratives, which continue to inflame the situation," he said.

The retired Lt Gen also highlighted the importance of public involvement in implementing confidence-building measures such as reopening highways and enabling the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

He said efforts like ensuring free movement on highways cannot succeed without the active participation and cooperation of local communities.

Commenting on the recent government outreach, he said that involving civil society organisations (CSOs) from both communities is crucial to understanding the roots of the conflict.

However, he argued that dialogues must be held at two levels - with CSOs and with elected representatives - to ensure both community perspectives and constitutional responsibilities are balanced.

"The MLAs are responsible not just to their communities, but also to the Constitution and the people.

Their inclusion is necessary for any political solution to be durable," he added.

The retired general also warned against repeating failed methods, particularly violence, which he said has only prolonged suffering and yielded no viable path forward.

He cited examples of ordinary people being forced to travel treacherous routes just to access flights or perform last rites due to insecurity and dislocation, underscoring the deep humanitarian impact of the conflict.

"We must stop reinforcing failures in our quest for solutions," he said.

He called for any future resolution to be firmly grounded in the principles of human rights and the rule of law.

He said the Indian Constitution guarantees the protection of individual rights and freedoms, and any peace process must ensure that both Meetei and Kuki communities are treated with fairness and dignity.

He added that the Central government has a key role to play in facilitating and sustaining the peace process by ensuring that it remains inclusive and respects the legal and constitutional framework of the country.

"The future of Manipur cannot depend on any one community.

It must be built on shared goals, mutual respect, and inclusive governance," Nishikanta said.

The former Army officer reiterated that consensus is vital to shaping a peaceful and prosperous future for Manipur.

He urged both communities to recognise their interdependence and work toward a framework that protects cultural identities while enabling collaborative coexistence.

"Ultimately, the key to resolving this conflict lies in fostering mutual understanding and finding common ground.

Without dialogue, the suffering will continue.

With it, we have a chance at lasting peace," he said.

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