New Delhi [India], October 15 (HBTV): In a first-ever significant meeting since the violent crisis erupted on May 3, 2023, in Manipur, a group of elected members of the state's Assembly representing Kuki-Zo-Hmar, Meitei and Naga communities on Tuesday discussed on the current scenario in the state and appealed to the people of the state to shun violence. 

The move marks the first direct discussions between Kuki, Meitei and Naga representatives, highlighting the Centre's commitment to facilitating dialogue between the fractured communities. 

The talks, organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs, were held in the national capital in the presence of senior officials of the ministry and MLAs and ministers of Kuki-Zo-Hmar, Meitei and Naga communities.

The meeting lasted for almost three hours and discussions aimed to find solutions to the enduring crisis and restore peace in the region. 

"A group of elected members of the Manipur Assembly, representing Kuki-Zo-Hmar, Meitei and Naga communities, met in New Delhi today to discuss on the current scenario in the state. The meeting unanimously resolved to appeal to the people of the state belonging to all communities to shun the path of violence so that no more precious lives of innocent citizens are lost," the MHA said in a statement issued after the meeting.    

As per sources, the participating Meitei, MLAs and ministers included Thongam Biswajit, Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata, Thounaojam Basantakumar, Khongbantabam Ibomcha, Dr Sapam Ranjan, Thokchom Radhe-shyam, and Tongbram Robindro. 

The Kuki community was represented by Letpao Haokip, Paolienlal Haokip, Haokholet Kipgen, and others. Naga MLAs and ministers participating in the talks include Awangbow Newmai, L. Dikho, and Ram Muivah, said sources.   

(ANI)