Stop this madness: World Meitei Council

Ukhrul, Mar 4: Calling for an end to the Manipur conflict, the World Meitei Council (WMC) has stated that there is a limit to suffering and that the madness that has gripped Manipur must end.

In a press statement, the WMC stated that the ongoing violence has claimed nearly three hundred lives and devastated thousands more, having persisted for far too long. It also thanked the Modi government’s intervention in containing the conflict, even though it said it came much later than it should have.

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“However, it is unfortunate that certain groups are resisting the peace efforts initiated by the Centre. These protests, driven by those who seek to destabilize Manipur, are not unexpected. These elements have long been emboldened as they were pampered and spoiled by the Assam Rifles. We believe that sooner or later, they will realise the futility of their actions,” WMC said.

The council also stated that the wounds inflicted on both communities were deep, leaving scars that will take time to heal.

“Yet, this painful experience must serve as a lesson for all of us. The history of this ancient land, the state of Manipur, cannot be taken lightly, nor can we allow it to be rewritten by violence and hatred.”

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The World Meitei Council then appealed to ‘those who continue to fuel this conflict’ to accept reality and put an end to this madness, saying “Violence has its limits and we must all recognize that no lasting solution can be built upon chaos and bloodshed. The hard lessons of this crisis must not be forgotten”.

Further, the council urged the Central Government to uphold its duty to protect the lives and property of all citizens, regardless of region, religious background or state. At the same time, the state government must take full responsibility for restoring law and order in Manipur without compromise, it said.

Finally, it called upon the civil society organizations of all the communities in Manipur, the media and political leaders to play their part in rebuilding peace. It is our collective duty to restore normalcy, safeguard our state and secure a better future for the coming generations, it added.

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