NewKerala.com

Manipur CM Visits Jiribam, Pledges Support for Displaced and Peace

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh undertook his first road visit to Jiribam district since the ethnic violence began in May 2023. He interacted with displaced families from various communities and assured them of the government's continued support for resettlement and housing. The CM highlighted Jiribam as a positive example where diverse communities have agreed to engage on a common platform for peace. During the visit, he also reviewed healthcare facilities at the district hospital and called for reforms in staff transfers.

Key Points: Manipur CM Visits Jiribam, Assures IDP Support & Peace Efforts

  • CM's first road visit to Jiribam since 2023 violence
  • Reiterates support for internally displaced persons
  • Hails district as a precedent for community unity
  • Reviews healthcare facilities at district hospital
  • Aims to bridge trust deficit between communities
3 min read

Manipur CM visits Jiribam, assures support to displaced families, peace efforts

Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh visits Jiribam district, assures support to displaced families and emphasizes government's peace-building efforts.

"I may not be able to fulfil all your wishes, but I will continue to support each one of you - Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh"

Imphal, April 4

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday reiterated that his government is making all possible efforts to assist internally displaced persons affected by ethnic violence, extending support in every capacity available to the state.

Accompanied by state BJP president Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi and nine party MLAs, the Chief Minister undertook his maiden visit to the mixed-population Jiribam district, which shares its border with southern Assam.

"I may not be able to fulfil all your wishes, but I will continue to support each one of you in whatever way I can. Everyone aspires to return home, and our government is making every effort to assist IDPs in building new houses," Singh said.

The Chief Minister and his delegation travelled over 220 km by road from Imphal to Jiribam via National Highway 37, completing the journey in around six hours. This marks the first such road visit by a sitting Chief Minister since ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in May 2023.

The route passes through Kangpokpi district, a region predominantly inhabited by Kuki-Zo tribal communities, adding symbolic significance to the visit. Since the outbreak of the conflict, members of the Meitei and Kuki communities have largely refrained from travelling through areas dominated by each other.

Singh noted that Jiribam has set a precedent by becoming the first district in Manipur where communities have come together to restore peace after nearly three years of ethnic unrest.

Addressing a 'Community Interaction Programme' at New Alipur Rongmei Naga village in Bidyanagar, Jiribam, the Chief Minister said that as his government completes two months in office, he chose to visit the district because of its example of unity, where people from diverse communities have agreed to engage on a common platform.

"People of Jiribam are among the most broad-minded in the state," he said.

During the programme, Singh interacted with IDPs from Meitei, Kuki, Paite, and Hmar communities, listening to their concerns. A Meitei woman shared her fears about returning home, while a young Hmar tribal girl highlighted the challenges faced by people from remote areas in securing government jobs.

Explaining the intent behind his visit, Singh said it was aimed at bridging the trust deficit. He cited an example from his tenure as a minister, recalling steps taken to ensure transparent recruitment of 74 staff members in the Rural Development Department.

A Kuki village leader expressed willingness to return home, stating his trust in the government, and described the Meitei community in Jiribam as broad-minded. Similarly, a Paite community member urged the Chief Minister to continue peace-building measures, acknowledging the role of local leaders in supporting reconciliation efforts.

The Chief Minister also visited the Jiribam District Hospital at Ningshingkhul, where he reviewed available healthcare facilities. He noted that many specialist doctors are reluctant to accept postings in the district.

Emphasising the need for reforms in the health sector, Singh called for the implementation of a transparent transfer policy for healthcare professionals. He assured that the government would extend all necessary support to improve the functioning of the district hospital.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked with IDPs in other regions, I appreciate the focus on listening to their fears directly. The woman's fear about returning home is very real. The government must ensure physical security first, then livelihood support. The hospital issue is also critical - no specialist doctors is a huge problem.
P
Priya S
Jiribam setting an example of unity is heartening to hear. In a diverse country like India, local communities coming together is the only sustainable solution for peace. The CM should replicate this 'Jiribam model' in other troubled districts of Manipur. More power to the people there!
A
Aman W
With all due respect, these visits and assurances have been happening for nearly three years. What people need is action on the ground - rebuilding houses, providing jobs (as the Hmar girl pointed out), and a permanent security plan. I'll believe it when I see the new houses actually built.
K
Kavya N
The transparency in government job recruitment and doctor postings is key. Corruption and bias in postings have ruined many systems in the Northeast. If the CM can deliver on a fair transfer policy for doctors, it will be a major achievement. Wishing strength to all communities in Manipur.
D
David E
Bridging the trust deficit is the most important task. The fact that a Kuki leader expressed trust and called Meiteis in Jiribam broad-minded is a significant, hopeful sign. This bottom-up peace, driven by local communities, has a much better chance than top-down orders from Delhi or Imphal.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50