United Manipur only way forward for all communities: CM Singh
Imphal, June 19
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday said that a united Manipur is the only way forward for all communities residing in the state.
The Chief Minister said that Manipur's identity and territorial integrity have been preserved through the ages by the collective sacrifices of all its 36 communities.
He made the remarks while addressing the inauguration‑cum‑reception programme of the newly constructed Girls' Hostel of the Mission Blind School at Laiching Heikakpokpi in Tengnoupal district, a tribal‑dominated region.
He urged the people to cherish and uphold the legacy of the state built by their forefathers. Referring to the diverse communities living in and around Heikakpokpi, the Chief Minister stressed that the state can progress only through unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Drawing a comparison with Singapore, he said development becomes possible when people rise above community divisions and work together with a shared identity and common purpose.
Appealing for lasting peace, Khemchand Singh said violence can never provide a solution to any issue and urged all sections of society to resolve differences through dialogue and understanding. He observed that the state's economy has suffered significantly because of the ongoing crisis.
The Chief Minister noted that signs of normalcy have begun to emerge after more than three years of conflict and called upon all stakeholders to protect and strengthen the ongoing peace process for the benefit of future generations.
He said that many Kuki residents have started travelling to Imphal to board flights, while several groups have met him in recent months to discuss measures for restoring peace and normalcy.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister announced that the state government would upgrade the Mission Blind School from Class VIII to Class X, enabling visually impaired students to continue their education at the same institution without having to transfer elsewhere. He directed the Director of Social Welfare to expedite the proposal and take necessary steps for its implementation.
The programme also featured cultural performances by members of the Maring, Kom and Tarao tribal communities, as well as presentations by students of the Mission Blind School. On the occasion, organisers and local representatives submitted memoranda to the Chief Minister seeking government intervention in various developmental issues affecting the area.
The function was attended by Deputy Commissioner of Tengnoupal Saurabh Yadav, Col Amit Mane, and Chairman of the Justice Committee on the Anglo‑Manipur War 1891, Joychandra Konthoujam, among others.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Nice to see the Chief Minister visiting a tribal region and acknowledging the contributions of all 36 communities. The Singapore comparison is a bit ambitious given our ground realities, but the vision is admirable. Let's hope the peace process really takes off.
It's encouraging that Kuki residents are now able to travel to Imphal for flights. Small signs of normalcy matter. But the real test will be whether these gestures translate into lasting harmony. The economy has suffered terribly - the people need concrete support, not just speeches.
I wish the CM would also address the root causes of the conflict - land rights, political representation, economic marginalization. Just saying 'united Manipur' without tackling these issues feels incomplete. But upgrading the blind school is a nice touch. 👏
The cultural performances by Maring, Kom and Tarao communities show that even amidst crisis, the rich tapestry of Manipur's heritage endures. That's what we should celebrate. Let's hope this unity message reaches every corner of the state. 🤞
A CM talking about unity and peace - sounds good, but actions speak louder. Three years of conflict and the economy in shambles. The people need jobs, infrastructure, and safety. Dialogue is necessary but so is justice for victims. Let's hold him accountable.
K We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.