Kuki-Zo Groups Say Mourning Continues, Plan to Skip Events During PM’s Visit

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his visit to Manipur, Kuki-Zo groups have announced they will not participate in official events linked to the tour. The groups say their period of mourning over recent violence and unrest is not yet over, making it inappropriate for them to attend celebrations or political gatherings. Their stance highlights the ongoing pain and divisions in a state struggling to return to normalcy.

The Kuki-Zo community has been one of the worst affected by the ethnic clashes that shook Manipur. While the situation has calmed in some areas, scars of displacement, destruction, and loss remain. Community leaders have said that until meaningful steps are taken for justice and reconciliation, they cannot engage in public displays of festivity.

PM Modi’s visit is seen as an attempt to send a message of peace and reassurance. The government has repeatedly stated its commitment to restoring order and aiding those impacted by the conflict. However, the refusal of Kuki-Zo groups to attend official events underlines the challenges that remain in building trust between communities and the state machinery.

For people in Tier-2 cities across the Northeast, such developments are closely watched. Cities like Imphal, Aizawl, and Dimapur act as hubs for trade, education, and healthcare, and unrest in surrounding areas directly affects daily life. Continued tensions not only strain local economies but also discourage investment and development in smaller towns.

Observers point out that reconciliation in Manipur requires more than political gestures. Rehabilitation of displaced families, rebuilding of damaged infrastructure, and honest dialogue between communities will be key to lasting peace. Without these, symbolic events may appear hollow to those still grieving.

The Kuki-Zo decision reflects the depth of unresolved trauma in Manipur. While the Prime Minister’s visit carries symbolic importance, the absence of affected groups sends a strong message: healing cannot be rushed, and rebuilding trust will take time, patience, and concrete action.