Manipur CM Advocates for Peace and Dialogue in Ukhrul District

Promoting Harmony in Ukhrul

Imphal, Apr 17: During his first visit to Ukhrul district since taking office, Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh emphasized the importance of dialogue and peace among various communities.

He acknowledged that while every community has its share of positive and negative aspects, the universal desire among citizens is for peace.

In a touching moment with a woman who was visibly emotional in Thawai Kuki village, Singh expressed, "I am a human being. My heart was truly touched. Dialogue is the only path to restoring peace."

The state has been experiencing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki groups since May 2023, triggered by a 'Tribal Solidarity March' aimed at opposing the Meitei's request for Scheduled Tribes status.

While advocating for peaceful coexistence, the chief minister remarked, "We must consider future generations, as violence has a severe impact on children."

Singh reassured residents that he would prioritize the resumption of normal school activities and ensure access to clean drinking water in the area.

On his journey to Ukhrul, he visited Sharkaphung, a Tangkhul Naga village, where he received a warm welcome from the village chief, elders, and women.

Regarding the construction of a bridge in Sharkaphung, he instructed the chief engineer of the Public Works Department to address the issue, promising that the bridge's construction would commence this year.

Singh also made stops at Shangkai, Shokvao, and Ramva villages along the Imphal-Ukhrul route.

In Shangkai village, he engaged with locals, where women expressed their concerns about the lack of clean water and sought his assistance.

The chief minister assured them that he would prioritize this issue and work towards a swift resolution.