Manipur CM urges people to avoid bandhs, violence as protests continue in state
Imphal, May 23
The Public Works Department, Manipur, on Friday inaugurated the Akham Bridge, Salam Bridge and Maklang Bridge at Akham Mayai Leikai and Maklang Bazar in Imphal West district.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest, while Lamshang MLA Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh presided over the function.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Khemchand urged people to refrain from agitation such as bandhs, blockades and violence, referring to recent protests held in different parts of the state following incidents of killings.
He said such activities severely affect the people of Manipur, particularly the state's economy and daily life. He appealed to the public to raise grievances through peaceful and democratic means.
Recalling his visit to Jiribam, the Chief Minister said Meetei, Hmar and other communities had lived together peacefully in the area. He stressed the need to restore peace and harmony across the state and called upon all communities to work together for a peaceful Manipur.
Meanwhile, as part of continuing protests against the alleged abduction of six Naga civilians, women and youths of Majorkhul Kabui village staged a sit-in protest demanding their immediate and unconditional release.
A large number of women and youths participated in the protest, raising slogans against the alleged abduction of the six Naga civilians by Kuki groups from Leilon Vaiphei Kuki village in Kangpokpi district on May 13.
Speaking to ANI, Anemlu Kamei demanded the immediate release of the Naga civilians.
"We are demanding the release of six Naga civilians kidnapped by the Kuki groups. We have organised the sit-in protest," she said.
The protesters also urged the government to take strict action against those involved in the incident.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Har taraf bandh aur protest se aam aadmi ki zindagi mushkil ho gayi hai. Economy toot rahi hai. Lekin CM sahab ko bhi samajhna chahiye ki log be-wajah nahi uth rahe hain - justice chahiye, aur who bhi jaldi!
This is heartbreaking to read. Abductions and protests spiraling out of control. Manipur needs serious dialogue between communities, not just calls for calm. The government must act firmly against perpetrators of violence.
Main toh kahunga ki CM ji sahi keh rahe hain - bandh se sirf gareeb aur middle class ko takleef hoti hai. Lekin jab kisi ke ghar se kisi ko utha liya jaye toh insaan ka khoon khaulne lagta hai. Dono taraf se step back lena padega.
As a fellow North Easterner, I feel for Manipur. Peaceful protest is the way forward, but CM must ensure justice for the abducted Nagas and build trust. Otherwise these tensions will keep flaring up. Stay strong, Manipur! 🌸
The CM's speech about historical peace between communities is important, but it's vague. What concrete measures are being taken to stop abductions? Protests will continue until people feel safe. Sympathy for all affected families.
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