Amid seven-day ultimatum served on Maova Village Council (MVC) by Chakhroma Youth Organization (CYO), a joint meeting between Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) and MVC representatives was held at CPO Hall place on Saturday to discuss the February 13 incident at Maova village.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, CPO vice president Sebastian Zumvu described the talks as a positive first step, even though no final resolution was expected on day one.
“They sought an appointment with us for the last two days. We fixed a convenient date and time, and today they came. We are thankful. We are hopeful that something positive will come out in the next few days. Let’s keep our fingers crossed,” he said. Confirming that MVC’s visit was prompted by CYO ultimatum, Zumvu, however, declined to share detailed discussion points but described the interaction as having both “good vibes” and “negative vibes.”
He stressed that both sides desired peaceful co-existence and harmony. “No one wants to aggravate the matter. We all want peace, normalcy, and harmony,” he stated. While acknowledging MVC’s apology for the February 13 incident, Zumvu described it as merely a “symptom” of a deeper underlying issue.
“That incident was just a symptom, not the disease. The disease is different and needs to be treated,” he said, stressing that without treating the disease, fighting the symptom would not work. “They have understood that”, he added. He also noted that it was crucial to address the root cause before the matter escalates.
On the condition of the injured, Zumvu reported that EAC (Medziphema) was discharged after first aid, while one police personnel remained in ICU.
He expressed regret that CPO have not yet been able to visit the injured. Regarding next steps, Zumvu made it clear: “The ball is in the court of Maova Village. Not with us.”
Speaking on behalf of MVC, Sutminlal Vaiphei said the village council attended the meeting in good faith in response to the CYO ultimatum.
He refrained from commenting on the progress of the talks but expressed hope for a positive outcome. “As CYO gave an ultimatum, we came today in good faith. The meeting has concluded. Regarding the progress, we don’t have any comments. However, let’s hope for the best,” Vaiphei said.