Ukhrul, October 8: Meitei Leepun, has welcomed the visit of Thuingaleng Muivah, general secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM), to Somdal, his native village in Manipur’s Ukhrul district, calling it a moment of emotional and historical significance for the people of Manipur.
M Pramot Singh, chief of Meitei Leepun, a “socio-cultural organisation,” in a statement on Wednesday described Th. Muivah as “not only a respected leader of the Naga people but an inspirational and visionary figure admired across communities.” It said that allowing his return to his ancestral village after more than five decades was a “wise and compassionate decision” by New Delhi, adding that Meitei Leepun had been pursuing the cause through various channels since 2015.
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Meitei Lepun noted that Th. Muivah has long been recognised as a leader who “stood firm for the land and its people,” and whose life reflects “conviction, identity, and the awakening of indigenous consciousness.”
Calling for unity, Meitei Leepun said the visit should serve as an opportunity to strengthen the bond of brotherhood between the Nagas and the Meiteis, to foster dialogue, and to reaffirm the shared commitment to peace and coexistence.
“The beauty of Manipur lies in its diversity, and our shared future depends on preserving that diversity with dignity and respect,” the statement read.
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Th Muivah, 91, will return to his hometown on October 22.