Manipur Chief Minister Visits Jiribam Relief Camps, Appeals for Unity and Progress
In a significant move to address the aftermath of prolonged conflict, Manipur's newly appointed Chief Minister, Yumnam Khemchand, made his first official visit to relief camps in Jiribam district on Wednesday. This marked his inaugural trip outside Imphal since assuming office on February 4, 2026, underscoring his commitment to fostering reconciliation and development in the strife-torn region.
Call to Overcome Past Nightmares and Embrace Peace
During his interaction with Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the Hmar tribe, Chief Minister Khemchand delivered a poignant message, urging them to view the last two years as a "nightmare" that should be left behind. He emphasized the need for courage to "move forward towards peace and development," highlighting the importance of forgiveness and neighborly love, principles he noted are central to Christianity. This visit to Jarolpokpi Hmar village, which had witnessed violence during the peak of the Manipur conflict, was part of his broader outreach to affected communities.
Rebuilding the Concept of a Unified Manipur
Chief Minister Khemchand expressed concern that the "concept of Manipuri" is under threat, advocating for a renewed identity that transcends ethnic divisions. He stated, "First, we are Indian and then we are Manipuri. We can be Manipuri Naga, Manipuri Kuki, and Manipuri Meitei. We need to rebuild the concept of Manipuri." In Mongbung Meitei village, he further stressed the necessity for all sides to engage in dialogue to bridge trust deficits, reinforcing his vision of a cohesive state free from caste and community lines.
Focus on Development and Infrastructure in Jiribam
Highlighting Jiribam's strategic importance, Chief Minister Khemchand described it as "the most important place in Manipur" with potential to become a business hub. He asserted that peace is essential for this transformation, noting that the district administration is actively addressing the concerns of IDPs, including the construction of houses expected to be completed by March. Villagers in Jarolpokpi extended their support to his government, requesting attention to local needs such as school building improvements.
Commitment to Resolution and Future Steps
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of his visit, Chief Minister Khemchand reaffirmed his dedication to resolving the state's challenges, acknowledging that efforts began during the President's Rule. While he indicated it is too early to announce specific timelines or methods, he assured that his government is focused on addressing these issues systematically. Jiribam district, located about 217 km from Imphal and bordering Assam's Cachar district, is home to diverse communities including Meiteis, Kuki-Zo groups, Nagas, and Muslims, making it a critical area for peacebuilding initiatives.
