Manipur Government, UNC Hold First Round of Talks in Senapati

The Manipur Government and the United Naga Council (UNC) on Monday held the first round of formal talks at SM SHA Hall in Taphou, Senapati, marking the beginning of dialogue on issues concerning the Naga community.

The government delegation was led by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho and Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, who travelled to Senapati for discussions with the apex Naga body.

The 12-member UNC delegation was headed by its president, N.G. Lorho. The delegation included General Secretary Vareiyo Shatsang, advisors Paul Leo and Adani Mao, and Thotso, Member Secretary of the Working Committee, among others.

Several legislators also accompanied the government delegation, including T. Robindro Singh, P. Brojen Singh, Th. Radheshyam Singh, Sheikh Noorul Hassan, Khasim Vashum, J. Kumo Sha, Ahem Pamei, Awangbow Newmai and Leishiyo Keishing.

The meeting marked the opening round of dialogue between the state government and the UNC amid continuing differences over the Naga body's charter of demands.

Speaking after the meeting, UNC president N.G. Lorho said the discussions focused on finding a way forward. He reiterated that the UNC would stand by its charter of demands and said the organisation was not prepared to lift the blockade at this stage.

Lorho said the decision now rests with the Manipur government and warned that the UNC could consider more stringent measures if its demands were not addressed.

Home Minister Govindas Singh, however, declined to comment on the discussions when approached by the media after the meeting.

The details of the talks, including any decisions or agreements reached, have not yet been made public.