CSOs, Churches, and MLAs Urge for Peace in Churachandpur

Ukhrul, Mar 19: Several tribal bodies, Churches, and 6 MLAs from the Kuki and Zo communities have made fervent appeals for peace in the Churachandpur district following the communal clash that led to the loss of life and properties.

The joint appeal signed by various Church and tribe leaders stated that recognizing the deep-rooted cultural and historical bonds among the communities of Churachandpur and acknowledging the recent communal tensions that have led to the loss of lives and destruction of property, committed to fostering peace, unity, and reconciliation among all ethnic and religious groups.

The agreement was signed by various groups including tribal, student, and church bodies from the Kuki, Hmar, and Zomi communities.

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The bodies stated that based on mutual respect, justice, and a shared vision for a harmonious future, they signed to pledge to work towards non-violence, communal harmony, and peaceful co-existence; condemn all forms of violence, including hate speech, destruction of property, and acts of aggression; and to resolve disputes between communities through dialogue. They also agreed to safeguard properties that were left behind as per the mandate of the Supreme Court of India. Further, the Churches were tasked to look after their flock, discouraging them from participating in violence.

The signatories stated that any violations of this agreement shall be addressed through peaceful dialogue, with efforts made to restore harmony. Also, the agreement signified their collective commitment to restoring peace, healing wounds, and building a future where all communities of Churachandpur can coexist with dignity and mutual respect.

“To prevent the recurrence of such misunderstandings and to foster mutual trust and communal harmony in the district, a joint peace committee will be established to monitor the situation and address any misunderstandings that may arise between communities in the future,” the bodies added.

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In a separate appeal, six MLAs, including Ngursanglur Sanate, Vungzagin Valte, Letzamang Haokip, LM Khaute, Paolienlal Haokip, and Chinglungthand, have also urged peace and harmony amongst the communities.

The MLAs termed the incidents as unfortunate, having the potential to disrupt peace and adversely affect their unity and brotherhood. They also stated that they have been going through the most critical and difficult times in their history and have been fighting for their rights shoulder to shoulder-as one. The MLAs further urged everyone to invoke the Christian value of forgiveness to resolve misunderstandings.

Appealing for peace, they urged the community leaders and the state Government, especially the District Administration, to take up all requisite measures for the restoration and maintenance of law and order in the district.

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