The Assam Rifles Foothills Football Tournament 2026 wrapped up with a notable final between the Kuki and Meitei teams, fostering unity in a region experiencing ethnic strife. This tournament was organised by the 33rd Battalion under the 9 Sector of the Assam Rifles, with the theme “Harmony Through Football.” A total of thirteen teams from various locales in Manipur participated, aiming to promote peace, rebuild trust, and encourage dialogue through sporting activities.

New Keithelmanbi Secures Victory

The championship match featured New Keithelmanbi competing against Haibung FC, marking it as a significant event since the outbreak of violence on May 3, 2023, which disrupted inter-community interaction. In a fiercely contested game, New Keithelmanbi triumphed with a score of 5-2 over Haibung FC. The energetic atmosphere was palpable, attracting a large crowd of enthusiastic spectators to the Assam Rifles Football Ground.

Player Reactions and Reflections

After the match, Haibung FC Captain Ginminlen Haokip recognised the formidable performance of the opposing team while reflecting on his own team’s efforts. He stated, “Our opponents were very good. Today we were lacking a defensive line, but next time we will play better. We don’t think about anything regarding the tension going on in Manipur. We played the game very well. We were supporting each other.” On the other side, New Keithelmanbi Captain Jack Ningthoujam expressed pride in their achievement, commenting, “Our team has played really well. With a lot of hard work, we have become champions. We have also played with the Kuki community, and it feels very good; they have also played well.”

Message of Unity from Assam Rifles

Deepika, the Zonal President of the Assam Rifles Wives Welfare Association (ARWWA), also attended the final and emphasised the broader objectives of the event. She remarked, “I came to see the final match organised by the Assam Rifles between two teams. Assam Rifles always supports sports in Manipur. We are trying to show that sports can unite, and everyone wants to live in peace and harmony. That is our message to everyone through this tournament.” Players from both participating teams expressed their joy in taking part, highlighting that sports can serve as a bridge to connect communities. “Through sports, we are united. We are happy to play with each other,” they stated, reinforcing the event’s underlying purpose.

Cultural Celebrations Enrich the Event

The tournament was also punctuated by vibrant cultural displays from both the Meitei and Kuki communities. Traditional dances, colorful costumes, and rhythmic drumming enhanced the atmosphere, symbolising a shared heritage and mutual respect among the diverse groups involved. Located along the border of Kangpokpi district and Imphal West, Keithelmanbi is home to various communities, including Meiteis, Kukis, Rongmei Nagas, and Nepalis.

A Constructive Step in Achieving Reconciliation

In a state that has faced persistent unrest, the football tournament was perceived as a positive initiative toward fostering reconciliation and reestablishing normality. The final at Keithelmanbi will be remembered as more than just a sporting event; it serves as a symbol of healing in Manipur.