Rebuilding Manipur With Love

MANIPUR WAS once known as the land of Sanaleibak, meaning “the land of gold.” This wasn’t a reference to literal gold, but to the richness of its soil, among the most fertile in India. The state was also known for its excellence in sports, with many young men and women proudly representing India on national and international platforms. The people of Manipur were known for their hard work, especially in education, with many securing prestigious central government jobs across various departments. There was a time of peace, harmony, and progress in all spheres.

Over the last 15 years, Manipur has experienced significant growth. Entrepreneurs and central government officers returned home, joining hands in developing the economy, boosting sports, and building businesses. There was hope. There was a vision for the growth of Manipur. But all that began to unravel due to the greed of a few politicians, individuals who sought to control the state through force and manipulation. Their ambition turned a land of peace into a place of bloodshed, chaos, bandhs, and hatred. They love evil more than good and lies more than truth. They don’t want peace; instead, they want chaos and disharmony in the state so that they can continue to manipulate the people, and funds for their own personal gain. They love to tell lies to the people and the central government, and then the truth. Their minds are full of evil. They know what they do is not good, but they continue to harass the people through the muscle power of the misguided young people whom they nurture.

ALSO READ: Thadou Students’ Association Mourns Manipur Cabin Crew Lost in Air India Crash

May 3, 2023, will be remembered as a dark day in Manipur’s history. A land that was once progressing turned into a land of exodus—a place of tears, screams, flames, and above all, deep distrust and hatred among communities that once lived as neighbours. While we long to return to the days of harmony, we must accept that it will not come easily. But we cannot give up.

Now, it is the duty of the people of Manipur to forgive, to strive forward, and to rebuild peace, trust, and unity. We must not be afraid to work for peace even if it means facing resistance from the narrow minded, from those who put their faith in strength and weapons. We must overcome evil with good. We must trust in God, pray earnestly, and work to restore broken relationships.

ALSO READ: Manipur Violence Marks Two Years: Rule of Law or Rule of Guns? A Ground Report from President’s Rule Manipur

Even if many refuse to subscribe to peace, even if some seek permanent separation, we must remember: no one can truly live in isolation—not as individuals, families, or communities. We are interdependent. We must choose to focus on what unites us. Without greed—whether for land, money, or power— we must embrace love, care, and compassion.

Now, more than ever, Manipur needs leaders—leaders from both communities who are fearless, who respect others, and whose hearts are filled with love for humanity. We cannot live in this present state of conflict forever. We must work tirelessly to restore peace, harmony, and love, so that Manipur may shine once again.

To build peace, each of us must ask ourselves: “Am I an ambassador for Manipur?” Every individual must take responsibility and say, “Without me, Manipur cannot be restored. I must play my part in healing my land.”

Dear brothers and sisters of Manipur, let us forget the past and strive toward a future—one filled with mutual respect, care, peace, and harmony among all tribes. Let us leave our comfort zones and rise above personal interests. Let us commit our time, energy, strength, and courage to revive the Manipur we once knew and loved. Together, let us rebuild. Together, let us hope. Together, let us shine again.

ALSO READ: Manipur Govt Lifts Internet Ban in 5 Valley Districts; Says Revocation Subject to Situation

The Author, Letlal Haokip is Pastor at The Journey Church, Delhi.

(This is not a Ukhrul Times publication. UT is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse its content. Any reports or views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of Ukhrul Times.)