Just a decade ago, Senapati Ground was filled with thousands of people from Senapati and Kangpokpi, gathered to witness the historic “Musical Exchange for Peace” event. Gospel music performed by local artists and the band “Harvest Team” enthralled the diverse tribes and sub-tribes of the two districts, fostering a vision of everlasting peace through music.
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This remarkable event, titled “Peace through Music,” was organized by the then-executives of the Kuki Students’ Organisation Sadar Hills and the Senapati District Students’ Association in May 2014. The gathering drew prominent leaders, including delegates from Kuki Inpi Manipur, United Naga Council, All Naga Students’ Association Manipur, KSO GhQ, various CSOs, underground and overground organizations, tribal leaders, and six MLAs from both districts.
Throughout the event, various leaders and social activists highlighted the significance of peace. Two memorable quotes from that day still resonate. A Naga leader acknowledged the challenges of organizing peace gatherings and expressed gratitude to KSO and SDSA for their efforts, emphasizing that implementing peace is even more challenging. Thangminlen Kipgen, President of KSO Sadar Hills, underscored that despite differences, the communities will always coexist—even if separate entities such as South Nagaland or Kukiland were to be established.
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The event concluded with a pledge administered by the President of Naga People’s Orgainsation. The presidents of both KSO and SDSA vowed to uphold peace and mutual understanding in the face of adversity. This commitment has been reaffirmed in recent years as KSO Sadar Hills and SDSA continue to work collaboratively to tackle challenges and overcome obstacles.
A decade later, the fruits of this historic event are evident. The bond between the two communities remains unbroken—a testament to the enduring power of peace and unity. I applaud the efforts of KSO Sadar Hills and SDSA and remain confident that, together, they will continue to face and overcome any challenges that lie ahead.
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Wishing you all a happy New Year 2025.
The author is former General Secretary KSO Sadar Hills, former Spokesperson Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, Secretary Youth Affairs and Sports All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur, Executive in-charge Mizo Global Council Kangpokpi District. He may be reached at mr.lamcha@gmail.com
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