Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met with prominent artistes at his official residence in Babupara, Imphal, on August 19. He demanded they use their creative work to mend a social fabric torn by an escalating conflict now involving three distinct communities. The CM wants the Meitei people to act as a "big brother and big sister" to help resolve the crisis.
Khemchand recalled a tense period during his time as a Cabinet minister. He reached out to Henglep MLA Letzamang Haokip to secure the lives of 120 Meitei labourers stranded in Churachandpur district. Haokip intervened successfully. The CM used this story to warn against collective blame. He argued that judging an entire community for the deeds of a few people is unethical.
The administration sees art as a bridge. Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh promised state support for creative projects meant to foster reconciliation. Attendees suggested a variety of platforms to reach the public. Shougrakpam Hemanta proposed a Shumang Leela play titled Ei Manipuri Ni to highlight a collective identity. Actor Gokul Athokpam volunteered to perform near National Highway 2 if the government guarantees security. Other contributors included singer Konthoujam Bobin, actress Chanam Lilabati, and Tangkhul Naga folk singer Guru Rewben Mashangva.
Lilabati urged a smarter use of social media to sway the youth toward peace. Beyond the stage, the CM backed the implementation of the National Register of Citizens in Manipur. He cited Jiribam district as a success story where communities now live in peace. Art and Culture Secretary Naorem Praveen Singh and Media Advisor Oinam Sunil Singh also attended the session.
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