Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has issued an urgent appeal for ethnic reconciliation, insisting that the state cannot achieve sustainable progress while divided. Speaking at the inauguration of a new girls hostel at the Mission Blind School in Tengnoupal district, he urged Meiteis, Nagas, and Kukis to bridge deep-seated trust deficits and focus on shared progress.
Khemchand emphasized that the state's future depends on collective cooperation across all backgrounds. He highlighted that the Heikakpokpi area, home to seven distinct recognized communities, serves as a vital microcosm of Manipur. According to the Chief Minister, the state's territorial integrity is a collective heritage. As he noted, "The boundaries and identity of Manipur are a shared legacy inherited from our forefathers."
The Chief Minister warned that prioritizing specific ethnic identities over the common good hinders the state's prosperity. He noted that prolonged conflict has already caused significant harm to the local economy and the educational prospects of the youth. To counter this, he confirmed that representatives from various groups, including Kuki and Naga organizations, are currently participating in regular dialogues at the Chief Minister Bungalow to restore normalcy.
Drawing on historical precedents from the post-World War II era, Khemchand argued that violence serves no purpose in resolving complex issues. He remains optimistic that ongoing negotiations are fostering an environment conducive to reconciliation, and he urged all citizens to move past resentment to secure long-term stability.
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