Kukis boarding flights from Imphal positive sign: Manipur CM

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh inaugurated the girls’ hostel at Mission Blind School at Laiching Heikakpokpi in Tengnoupal district on June 19, 2026. Photo: Special Arrangements.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday (June 19, 2026) said members of the Kuki community have started traveling to Imphal to board flights, a positive sign for the conflict-torn state.

Since the beginning of the ethnic conflict on May 3, 2023, Kuki-Zo tribesmen and non-tribal Meiteis have avoided traveling to their localities. While the Meiteis dominate the Imphal Valley, where Manipur’s only airport is located, the Kuki-Zo people inhabit the surrounding hills.

At an official function in Tengnoupal tribal district, Mr. Singh said that a united Manipur was the only way forward for the 36 communities inhabiting the state.

“Manipur can progress only through unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Development is possible only when people rise above communal divisions and work together with a shared identity,” he said.

Contrasted with the diverse but peaceful Singapore, he appealed to the people to ensure the continued peace process for the benefit of future generations. He called on all sections of society to resolve differences through dialogue, pointing out that the state’s economy has suffered due to the violence.

Signs of normality

According to him, after more than three years of conflict, there are signs of normalcy. “Many Kukis have started traveling to Imphal to board flights and many groups have met me to discuss peace,” he said.

The chief minister did not name the groups, but a Kuki delegation comprising representatives of Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and Kuki Students’ Organization reportedly invited him to Imphal two days ago.

Kim said he was unaware of such a meeting. On Friday (June 19), the Kukis organized a “state-wide rally” for the Centre’s intervention in the Manipur situation. The participants demanded justice and security for Kuki.

In a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, KIM claimed that Kukis continue to face “persecution, insecurity, targeted attacks, destruction of villages and loss of innocent lives” in Manipur.

The organization said the continued delay in addressing these incidents has deepened Kukis’ sense of victimization, insecurity and abandonment.

Since May 2023, more than 270 people have died in Kuki-Meitei and Kuki-Naga conflicts in Manipur. At least 62,000 others were displaced during this period.

Published – 19 Jun 2026 21:24 IST