Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Makes Historic Visit to Churachandpur Amid Ongoing Ethnic Tensions
In a significant development aimed at fostering reconciliation, Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losi Dikho visited Churachandpur on Saturday, marking the first time a politician from the state has traveled to the district since ethnic violence erupted between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in May 2023. Dikho utilized a football tournament as a platform to press for peace and healing in the region, according to reports by MK Henry.
Helicopter Arrival and Ceremony Attendance Draws Cheers from Crowd
Dikho arrived by helicopter to attend the closing ceremony of the sixth edition of the Zomi National Day Football Tournament. His presence was met with enthusiastic cheers from packed stands, signaling a moment of unity in an area deeply affected by months of conflict. The deputy chief minister's visit underscores a proactive governmental effort to bridge divides and restore normalcy.
Call for Calm and Reconciliation Across Manipur
Addressing the gathering, Dikho called for calm across Manipur, emphasizing the shared longing for peace. "Meiteis in Imphal miss you all," he stated, highlighting the emotional toll of the violence. "The government is keen to bring back peace, normalcy, and development to our state." His words aimed to reassure communities of the administration's commitment to resolving the crisis.
Learning from History and Emphasizing Christian Values
Dikho urged communities to learn from historical conflicts, specifically referencing the Kuki-Naga conflict as a cautionary tale. "We don't want such incidents to occur again," he asserted, invoking Christian values to advocate for forgiveness and reconciliation. He stressed that reconciliation must lead the way forward, fostering an environment where past grievances do not hinder future harmony.
Sports as a Catalyst for Healing and Unity
Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Dikho remarked that activities like football could help heal deep societal divides. "In sports, there is no religion, no caste, no boundary," he said, emphasizing its potential to transcend ethnic and cultural barriers. "Peace can return through sports if we really want it." This message positioned the tournament not just as a sporting event, but as a symbolic step toward rebuilding trust and cooperation among Manipur's diverse communities.
The visit represents a critical effort by state leadership to engage directly with affected areas, using cultural and sporting events as tools for dialogue and peacebuilding in a region striving to overcome prolonged ethnic strife.
