Silchar (Assam), April 5 (NationPress) Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh emphasized on Sunday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been instrumental in protecting the state's borders and interests.

While addressing a rally in Rongpur to support BJP candidate Rajdeep Goala for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, Singh commended Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for acknowledging the Manipuri language as an associate official language of Assam. He encouraged the Manipuri community in Assam to have faith in the BJP-led administration under Sarma.

Rajdeep Goala is vying for electoral victory from the Udharbond constituency situated in Cachar district's Barak Valley.

In his address, Singh celebrated the contributions of the Manipuri community in Cachar towards preserving Manipur's cultural heritage. He remarked, "The people of Cachar have always shown immense love for Manipur. Numerous Manipuri monarchs visited Cachar to discuss vital matters, as the Manipuri populace here has historically been a treasure trove of wisdom."

He pointed out that the residents of Cachar have consistently backed Manipur in critical matters, such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the demand for the inclusion of the Manipuri language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

Singh criticized the Congress party, alleging that the Northeast was overlooked during its prolonged governance, resulting in turmoil within the region. He asserted that while Congress neglected the Northeast, the BJP has been steadfast in its commitment to the region's welfare and advancement.

Recalling historical initiatives, Singh mentioned that former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee established the Department for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), which he regarded as a pivotal moment for the region's progress.

Sharing his personal ties with Assam, Singh revealed that he initiated the All Assam Taekwondo Association in 1982 and traveled widely throughout the state to promote Taekwondo. He expressed, "Hearing the name Assam resonates deeply with me," during his speech.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by seven BJP MLAs and Manipur BJP President A. Sharda Devi, both of whom also spoke to the crowd.

Following this, Singh campaigned for BJP candidates at Laishram Khun in Jaribon, under the Hailakandi constituency.

During his campaign, he reiterated that India's development remains incomplete without the Northeast and spotlighted the advancements made in cities like Guwahati under BJP governance. He urged the Manipuri community in Jaribon to rally behind the party. Singh also endorsed BJP candidate Dr Milon Das, describing him as an ideal candidate with a robust background in social service.

Manipur BJP President Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi noted that Singh's visit to Jaribam as Chief Minister has been long-awaited, following earlier visits by late leaders M. Koireng and Rishang Keishing.

Dr Milon Das, a 30-year-old research scholar from Assam University and the youngest candidate in the Hailakandi constituency, pledged to advocate for a Manipuri Autonomous Council in Assam.

During his visit, Singh also paid tribute at the burial site of late Naoria Phullo, a prominent Manipuri social reformer, and interacted with his family.

A substantial number of Manipuris reside in southern Assam, specifically across three districts: Cachar, Sribhumi (formerly Karimganj), and Hailakandi.

The elections for the 126-member Assam Assembly are set for April 9, with results anticipated on May 4.