Joint peace talks to begin in Manipur's Kangpokpi after Republic Day arson, heavy security and relief measures in place

In the aftermath of the Republic Day arson that shook K. Songlung village in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, a high-level joint peace meeting will be convened at the district headquarters, marking a decisive effort by the administration and community leaders to defuse tensions and restore stability in the region.

The meeting will be held at 1 pm and will be led by Dipu Gangmei, Chairman of the Hill Areas Committee, Manipur, and MLA from the Nungba Assembly Constituency. Representatives of major tribal and civil society organisations — including Kuki Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), the United Naga Council (UNC), the Zeliangrong Union and the Rongmei Naga People’s Organisation (RNPO) — will participate in the deliberations. Tamei MLA Awangbow Newmai is also expected to attend.

The joint initiative is aimed at initiating dialogue, rebuilding trust among communities, and formulating confidence-building and de-escalation measures in the aftermath of the violent incident. 

Officials and observers view the meeting as a significant step toward conflict resolution at a time when the region remains tense following the Republic Day violence.

Meanwhile, security has been significantly reinforced in K. Songlung village and surrounding areas. Following the arson attack, joint teams of district police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) launched extensive search and area-domination operations to prevent any further flare-ups.

Continuous patrolling, heightened surveillance, and the establishment of security pickets at vulnerable points have been put in place. Authorities confirmed that the area remains under high alert as a precautionary measure.

Senior Manipur Police officials, including Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police Abhinav, IPS, visited the affected village to assess the situation on the ground and interacted with local residents and civil society leaders.

“All villagers are safe, and there has been no report of any casualty. Security forces responded swiftly and are maintaining a strong presence to ensure the safety and security of all residents.”

Authorities underlined that security deployment will continue in and around K. Songlung and adjoining areas to maintain law and order and prevent further escalation.

In the aftermath of the attack, traumatised residents of K. Songlung village, many of whom fled their homes in fear, were relocated to the neighbouring Veitum Khullen village for safety.

The displaced families, including women, children, and the elderly, remain deeply shaken after their homes were reduced to ashes, forcing them to flee.

In a crucial humanitarian response, temporary shelter and food were arranged under the aegis of Kuki Inpi South West Sadar Hills, with neighbouring Kuki villages extending solidarity and immediate assistance. Community efforts ensured the provision of meals, basic necessities, and refuge, reflecting resilience and compassion during a moment of acute crisis.

Authorities said relief and security measures would continue alongside peace-building efforts, as the administration seeks to stabilise the situation and rebuild confidence among affected communities.