Imphal, April 4 (NationPress) Manipur's Chief Minister, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, emphasized his administration's commitment to supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) impacted by ethnic conflicts during his visit to Jiribam on Saturday. The state is dedicated to providing aid in every possible way to those affected by the violence.

Accompanied by state BJP president Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi and nine MLAs, this was the Chief Minister's first visit to the diverse Jiribam district, which borders southern Assam.

“While I may not meet all your expectations, I assure you of my unwavering support. Everyone wants to return home, and our government is dedicated to assisting IDPs in constructing new homes,” Singh stated.

The Chief Minister and his team traveled over 220 km from Imphal to Jiribam via National Highway 37, completing the journey in around six hours. This marks a significant road visit by a sitting Chief Minister since the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur in May 2023.

The journey traverses the Kangpokpi district, predominantly populated by Kuki-Zo tribal communities, adding symbolic importance to the visit. Since the conflict began, members of the Meitei and Kuki communities have largely avoided traveling through each other's territories.

Singh noted that Jiribam has pioneered a remarkable example of community unity, being the first district in Manipur to work towards restoring peace after almost three years of ethnic discord.

During a ‘Community Interaction Programme’ at New Alipur Rongmei Naga village in Bidyanagar, he expressed that his visit was timely as his government marks two months in office, highlighting Jiribam as a model of togetherness where diverse communities collaborate on common goals.

“The people of Jiribam exemplify broad-mindedness,” he remarked.

During the programme, Singh engaged with IDPs from various communities, including Meitei, Kuki, Paite, and Hmar, listening to their issues. A Meitei woman voiced her anxiety about returning home, while a young Hmar girl shared the challenges faced by those in remote areas seeking government employment.

Sharing the purpose of his visit, Singh aimed to mend the trust gap. He referred to his past experiences as a minister, mentioning efforts made to ensure transparent hiring of 74 staff in the Rural Development Department.

A leader from the Kuki community expressed his willingness to return home, stating his trust in the government and commending the Meitei community in Jiribam for their open-mindedness. A Paite community member also urged the Chief Minister to continue his peace-building initiatives, recognizing the importance of local leaders in reconciliation efforts.

Additionally, the Chief Minister visited the Jiribam District Hospital at Ningshingkhul to evaluate the healthcare services available. He acknowledged the reluctance of many specialist doctors to accept postings in the district.

Highlighting the need for reforms in the health sector, Singh advocated for a transparent transfer policy for healthcare professionals and assured that the government would provide all necessary support to enhance the functioning of the district hospital.