Photo Courtesy: nenews
Imphal: Khodang village in Manipur has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Kuki-Zo settlement to be officially reopened following the widespread displacement that started in May 2023. Located in a buffer zone near the Churachandpur, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts, the village had been deserted since May 28, 2023, after residents fled an alleged attack by the armed Meitei group, Arambai Tenggol.
Paolenlal Haokip inaugurated the resettlement programme by cutting a ceremonial ribbon and unveiling a commemorative stone. Pastor Zalal of the GTPA led a dedication prayer to mark the occasion. Residents returned to find that most of the village had been destroyed during the unrest, with more than 40 houses set on fire and only about eight structures left intact.
Village chief Jamminlien Haokip expressed relief that families could finally return to their homes and resume normal livelihoods. He credited the successful return to the collective efforts of the local MLA, district administration, civil society groups, and community leaders. Rehabilitation remains underway, with nearly 40 homes already rebuilt and 10 additional houses planned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana scheme.
The reopening ceremony drew a wide range of supporters, including representatives from Kuki civil society organizations, student bodies, women groups, and chiefs associations. Security personnel were also present to support the coordinated effort to restore normalcy in the region after nearly three years of displacement.
Comments