Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday, 19 June declared that a united Manipur is the only viable path forward for all communities in the conflict-affected state, making the remarks during a visit to the tribal-dominated Tengnoupal district. His statement comes as the state navigates the aftermath of more than three years of ethnic unrest that has strained inter-community relations and battered the local economy.

Key Remarks at Tengnoupal

The Chief Minister was addressing the inauguration-cum-reception programme of a newly constructed Girls' Hostel at the Mission Blind School in Laiching Heikakpokpi, Tengnoupal district. He stressed that Manipur's identity and territorial integrity have been preserved through the ages by the collective sacrifices of all 36 communities of the state, and urged residents to cherish and uphold that shared legacy.

Drawing a pointed comparison with Singapore, Singh argued that development becomes possible only when people transcend community divisions and work toward a shared identity and common purpose. He appealed for lasting peace, asserting that 'violence can never provide a solution to any issue' and calling on all sections of society to resolve differences through dialogue and understanding.

Signs of Normalcy After Three Years of Conflict

The Chief Minister acknowledged that the state's economy has suffered significantly due to the ongoing crisis, but noted that signs of normalcy have begun to emerge. He cited the fact that many Kuki residents have started travelling to Imphal to board flights, and that several groups have met him in recent months to discuss measures for restoring peace. Singh called upon all stakeholders to protect and strengthen the ongoing peace process for the benefit of future generations.

School Upgrade Announced for Visually Impaired Students

In a significant announcement at the event, Singh said the state government would upgrade the Mission Blind School from Class VIII to Class X, enabling visually impaired students to continue their education at the same institution without being forced to transfer elsewhere. He directed the Director of Social Welfare to expedite the proposal and take necessary steps for its implementation.

Who Attended

The programme featured cultural performances by members of the Maring, Kom, and Tarao tribal communities, along with presentations by students of the Mission Blind School. Organisers and local representatives submitted memoranda to the Chief Minister seeking government intervention on developmental issues affecting the area. The function was attended by Deputy Commissioner of Tengnoupal Saurabh Yadav, Col Amit Mane, and Joychandra Konthoujam, Chairman of the Justice Committee on the Anglo-Manipur War 1891, among others.

The Chief Minister's visit to a tribal-dominated border district — and his outreach to communities on both sides of the ethnic divide — signals a continued push by the state government to consolidate fragile gains in the peace process.