Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday stated that individuals from the Kuki-Zo community are increasingly traveling to Imphal to board flights, indicating a gradual reduction in tensions following more than three years of conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
Shift in Movement Patterns
The Chief Minister noted that previously, members of both communities were hesitant to venture into each other's areas. However, he highlighted that Kuki groups recently visited the Chief Minister's Bungalow in Imphal, where discussions were held on achieving lasting peace in the state.
Call for Unity
Khemchand asserted that a united Manipur is the only viable path forward for all communities residing in the state. He emphasized that Manipur's identity and territorial integrity have been preserved through the ages by the collective sacrifices of all its 36 communities.
Notably, Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen and representatives of Kuki civil organizations, including those reportedly from Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), met with the Chief Minister at his official residence two days ago.
KIM's Clarification
However, KIM clarified on Thursday that it had no knowledge of any meeting between its representatives, the Kuki Students' Organisation, and the Chief Minister. A KIM statement asserted that any engagement with the government must strictly follow due process, including prior consultation with the executive committee and the consent of the community. “If any member is found to have participated in such a meeting, appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the principles of accountability and responsibility upheld by the organisation,” the statement read.
Inauguration Event
The Chief Minister was speaking during the inauguration of Mission Blind School's girls' hostel and a reception event at Laiching Heikakpokpi in Tengnoupal district. Expressing concern over rising tensions in the hill districts between the Naga and Kuki communities, Khemchand stated that violence can never provide a solution and emphasized resolving differences through dialogue. He reiterated his appeal to all communities to maintain peace and harmony across the state.
CM Khemchand Singh inaugurated the girls' hostel at Mission Blind School in Tengnoupal on Friday.
