IMPHAL: Even as Manipur continues to experience volatile situations in many areas, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh stressed the importance of restoring lasting peace and normalcy in the state, while sharing his recent experiences from visits to conflict-affected areas. Khemchand said this today during the 8th Foundation Day celebration of the Chingamakha Nambul Mapal Development Committee (C.N.M.D.C.) at Chingamakha Yanglem Leikai Nambul Mapal in Imphal.
The Chief Minister recalled his recent visits to Jiribam, Kangpokpi, Senapati and Ukhrul, where he claimed he had witnessed encouraging signs of reconciliation among different communities. Khemchand said Kuki, Paite, Hmar and Meitei communities in Jiribam have resumed living together peacefully, sharing meals and returning to their homes, and added that he himself had lunch with members of the different communities. However, he expressed concern that a bomb blast at Tronglaobi the following day claimed the lives of two children and seriously injured their mother, causing the situation to deteriorate once again.
Also Read | Naga MLAs, Deputy CM Meet UNC Over Demands Linked to Killing of Six Naga Civilians
The Chief Minister said that while the government is making every effort to restore normalcy, lasting peace requires the cooperation of all sections of society. The Chief Minister observed that a few people continue to oppose peace because they benefit from the conflict and stressed the need to expose such vested interests and work collectively towards restoring normalcy.
The prevailing situation in Manipur is such that Meiteis, Kukis and Nagas cannot travel freely in the state. It all began on May 3, 2023, where the clashes between the Meiteis and Kuki-Zo community broke out. The crisis expanded in the beginning of this year when “problems” between the Kukis and the Nagas started.
Also Read | Zeliangrong Intellectual Group Demands Ban on Kuki Militant Groups, Seeks Justice for Six Slain Nagas
