Divided by conflict, Meiteis and Kukis unite on a football field
Times of India
by TNNFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In a region marked by long-standing tensions between the Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur, India, football has emerged as an unexpected tool for unity. After nearly three years of nighttime patrols and heightened security due to intercommunal conflicts, young men from these communities came together underOperation Sadbhavana at the Assam Rifles' New Keithelmanbi Garrison for a football tournament. This marked the first time in over a year that Kuki teams crossed buffer zones into Meitei-dominated areas, symbolizing a rare moment of collaboration and hope for peace.
The tournament featured 13 teams, including eight Nagas, three Meites, and two Kukis, named after their respective villages. Organized with strict guidelines to prevent any escalation, the event saw referees from outside the region and clear instructions to play fairly. Despite the historical tensions, players demonstrated sportsmanship, even during intense matches. For instance, a semifinal between Khonglong Naga Youth Club and Haibung FC—a Kuki team—ended peacefully, with a handshake symbolizing mutual respect despite recent violence in nearby areas.
The tournament carried significant weight beyond sport. Many participants had been involved in nighttime patrols for safety, but they emphasized their desire to avoid further conflict. For young players like those from Haibung FC, who faced burned homes and village attacks, the tournament represented both a responsibility to protect their communities and a hope for reconciliation. Their coach,Ngamgoulen, highlighted the importance of using football as a platform for dialogue and unity.
This event underscores how sports can serve as a powerful tool for bridging divides in regions prone to conflict. By bringing together rival groups on the field, it fosters understanding and trust, offering a pathway for healing and cooperation. The success of this tournament signals a potential model for peacebuilding in other areas marked by intercommunal tensions.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026