Imphal, Feb 11 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Manipur, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, visited the violence-affected Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Jiribam district on Wednesday. He encouraged the residents to move past previous conflicts and collaborate for peace and progress.

During his first visit to the diverse Jiribam district, which borders southern Assam, the Chief Minister expressed, “Let’s treat the last two years as a troubling dream. We must forget it and have the bravery to strive for peace and development.”

His visit started at the relief camp located at the Jiribam Higher Secondary School, where he engaged with the Meitei IDPs. Singh emphasized the importance of working together to eliminate the trust gap.

“Jiribam is pivotal to Manipur, with the potential to evolve into a commercial center. Just as Mumbai holds significance for India, Jiribam can become the Mumbai of Manipur. However, peace is a prerequisite for economic growth,” he stated.

He subsequently visited the Kalinagar relief camp, home to the Hmar tribal IDPs from the Kuki-Zo community. He requested the residents to perceive the past two years as a troubling dream and to advance with courage towards peace and development.

Referring to the Christian beliefs of the Hmar IDPs, Singh remarked that Christianity promotes forgiveness and compassion towards neighbors, including adversaries. He also made a stop at Jarolpokpi Hmar village, which faced violence in 2023.

This was Singh's second visit to Kuki-Zo villages since December 8 of the previous year, following an earlier trip to a Kuki community in Ukhrul district.

“I sense that there are attempts to undermine our Manipuri identity. We are Indians first, then Manipuris, encompassing Manipuri Naga, Manipuri Kuki, or Manipuri Meitei. We must work towards reconstructing this united identity,” he declared.

The Hmar community expressed their unwavering support for the government and appealed to the Chief Minister to address local issues, especially the need for a school building.

Later, Singh visited Mongbung Meitei village to interact with residents, who requested repairs for their village road. He assured them of developmental initiatives and reiterated that both communities should engage with one another to close the trust deficit.

“This marks my first trip outside Imphal since taking office as Chief Minister last week. I regard Jiribam as one of the most critical locations in Manipur, with immense potential for becoming a business hub. Achieving peace is vital to realizing this vision,” he added.

Singh assured the IDPs that their concerns are being addressed by the district administration, announcing that homes for the displaced are currently under construction and should be completed by March.

During his time at the Jiribam Higher Secondary School relief camp, Singh also provided a wheelchair to an elderly woman under the Palliative Care Scheme.

In discussions with the media following his visit, the Chief Minister reiterated his dedication to a cohesive Manipur devoid of caste and community divisions.

Regarding the resettlement of IDPs, he mentioned that the process commenced during President's Rule, and his government remains committed to resolving the situation, although it is premature to specify timelines.

Upon his arrival at the Bidyanagar Helipad, Singh was welcomed by the district administration, including Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar, Superintendent of Police Prakhar Pandey, and other officials from the district administration, police, and central security forces.