Since May 2023, Manipur has been in turmoil, with ongoing clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities. Even after more than a year, people from the Valley and the hills are unable to visit each other's areas due to the conflict.

For the Kukis, reaching Imphal Airport was challenging since it is located in the Meitei region. Similarly, the Meiteis faced difficulties travelling to the Kuki-dominated hill areas. However, the state administration has made it possible for residents to cross the border between the Valley and the hills, accompanied by security guards, in an effort to restore normalcy to the area. Both sides have been promised an escort if they wish to visit the other side, per a circular released by the chief secretary of Manipur. According to the letter, security has been in place along the following routes since December 4:

The movement will initially be limited to specific hours, and those who wish to join any of the following routes—Imphai-Kangpokpl-Senapati, Senapati-Kangpokpl-Imphal, Imphal-Bishnupur-Churachandpur, or Churachandpur-Bishnupur-Imphal—are advised to contact their respective DCs using the mobile numbers provided in the circular. The government has called on all stakeholders to cooperate and support the initiative, assuring that any attempts to disrupt the movement of vehicles along these routes through violence or illegal activities will not be tolerated.

“The initiative is good but not feasible on the ground. No Meitei will take the bus to come to the Kuki-Zo area and no Kuki-Zo will take the bus for Meitei areas. The chief minister is doing this just to look good," Ginza Vualzong, a leader of the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITlF) and spokesperson for the Kuki side, told News18. “Politics is going on to separate both communities. Such an initiative is welcome but it will all be in vain if politics is not resolved. A dialogue is needed," said Brij Kishore Singh, a Meitei and the treasurer of Uripok Apunba Lup.