Imphal, Feb 19 (NationPress) Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh emphasized on Thursday that enduring peace in the state can only be realized through mutual understanding, dialogue, and collaboration among its diverse communities.

Addressing the concerns of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by ethnic violence, the Chief Minister highlighted that Manipur is home to 36 distinct communities and underscored the necessity for unity between those residing in the hills and valleys.

He noted that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs from Manipur will visit all 36 relief camps housing IDPs as part of the government's initiative to address their issues.

Chief Minister Singh called upon IDPs and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to mend trust deficits and fortify peace efforts, stating that while some IDPs have returned to their native regions, numerous challenges persist as apprehension lingers among various groups.

He urged CSOs from both hills and valleys to unite in restoring normalcy and called for all communities to coexist in harmony and mutual respect.

During his visit, the Chief Minister distributed benefits to IDPs via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) at the Alternate Housing Complex in the National Games Village (NGV) Relief Camp in Imphal West, noting that nearly Rs 33 crore was allocated on the same day.

Engaging with the IDPs, Chief Minister Singh remarked that one of the initial steps following the establishment of the new government in Manipur, post the withdrawal of President's Rule, is to assist IDPs in returning home with a spirit of peace and goodwill.

He expressed gratitude towards Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla for his guidance in facilitating the return of some IDPs.

For the first time since the eruption of ethnic violence in May 2023, the Chief Minister connected with IDPs from both the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities simultaneously, both through in-person meetings and video conferencing.

The state government organized a joint interaction event for IDPs from Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Imphal West.

While engaging with Kuki-Zo IDPs from Churachandpur and Kangpokpi via video call, he was physically present at an IDP center located at the Langol Alternate Housing complex in Imphal West.

IDPs from both communities shared their stories, expressing their hardships over the past three years. A young Kuki girl from Kangpokpi district urged the Chief Minister to regard her as his daughter, lamenting her difficulties in pursuing her postgraduate studies. A Meitei woman implored the Chief Minister to allow her return to her home in Moreh.

Another Kuki-Zo woman from a relief camp in Churachandpur described the obstacles they face in receiving medical treatment.

The interaction was filled with emotion, with tears and heartfelt pleas as IDPs from both communities shared their hopes of returning home and resuming normal lives.

During this outreach, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of humanity, stating, 'I will not let your tears go in vain,' expressing the government's commitment to overcoming the trust deficit between the two communities.

He acknowledged the struggles of Churachandpur residents in accessing medical care, pointing out that many doctors in the state are from the Meitei community and that advanced medical facilities are concentrated in Imphal.

When ailing BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte, a leader from the Kuki community, required urgent care at the Churachandpur district hospital, the Chief Minister dispatched two Meitei Pangal doctors to assist, emphasizing the importance of their service in Kuki-Zo areas.

Chief Minister Singh noted that around 8,000 Kuki-Zo students have had their education disrupted by the ethnic conflict in Manipur. While about 2,000 of these students could continue their studies in other states, there are ongoing issues for the remaining 6,000 students.

He insisted that a special plan is necessary for these students, reiterating that any Kuki-Zo tribal individuals needing medical attention in Imphal will be guaranteed security.

He assured the Kuki-Zo IDPs from Churachandpur and Kangpokpi that newly acquired ambulances are available and that the state government will facilitate necessary arrangements for their medical needs.

Chief Minister Singh also mentioned a special support measure of Rs 2,420 per individual to help IDPs replace worn-out mattresses and essential personal items.

He outlined financial assistance initiatives, including Rs 1 lakh for families whose homes were completely destroyed; Rs 25,000 already disbursed to each of the 9,314 households as the first installment; an additional Rs 25,000 to be given to another 434 households; and Rs 20,000 in extra support for all 9,748 eligible households.

He assured that those who have yet to receive assistance will also be supported by the state government.

During the interactions, the Chief Minister patiently listened to grievances regarding resettlement, pensions, education, and healthcare from IDPs present in the venue and via video call.

IDPs from the Nghamun Relief Camp in the Kangpokpi district were represented by Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, who is of the Kuki community.

The event was attended by Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, several MLAs, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Commissioner to Chief Minister N. Ashok Kumar, senior officials, public representatives, and IDPs, among others.