Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday called for complete disarmament across Manipur, saying peace remains the only solution to the state’s prolonged ethnic unrest. During a meeting with Tangkhul Naga representatives in Ukhrul district, the Chief Minister stressed reconciliation, youth engagement and stronger security measures.
Quick Glance
- Manipur CM urged all communities to support peace and surrender illegal firearms.
- Tangkhul Naga leaders sought enhanced security in Sinakeithei village of Ukhrul district.
- The state government highlighted skill development and non-government employment initiatives for youth.
- Tensions between Kuki and Naga groups continue in parts of Ukhrul, Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
Manipur Government Intensifies Focus on Peace and Stability
Imphal: The Manipur government has renewed its push for peacebuilding amid continuing ethnic tensions in several hill districts of the state. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh stated that confiscating illegal firearms and ending violence are essential steps to restore stability in the conflict-hit region.
The Chief Minister made these remarks during an interaction with representatives of the Sinakeithei Village Authority from Ukhrul district. The delegation mainly comprised members of the Tangkhul Naga community.
Singh said the state cannot move forward unless all communities collectively reject violence. He stressed that reconciliation and dialogue are the only practical paths toward long-term peace in Manipur.
The Chief Minister further observed that trust among communities has suffered due to prolonged unrest. Therefore, he appealed to civil society organisations, tribal bodies and local leaders to work together to rebuild confidence among residents.
CM Calls for Youth Engagement Through Employment
Apart from discussing security concerns, the Chief Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to create employment opportunities for young people.
According to Singh, the administration is expanding skill development programmes to help youths secure jobs outside the government sector. He said constructive engagement of young people is necessary to prevent frustration and reduce the appeal of violence.
The government is currently focusing on vocational training, entrepreneurship and livelihood generation initiatives. These programmes aim to provide sustainable income opportunities to youths affected by the ongoing instability.
The Chief Minister also urged community elders and public representatives to guide the younger generation toward peaceful and productive activities.
Referring to global examples of reconciliation, Singh mentioned late South African leader Nelson Mandela. He said Mandela demonstrated how peace and unity could emerge even after years of conflict and division.
Tangkhul Naga Delegation Seeks Stronger Security Measures
During the meeting, the Tangkhul Naga delegation raised concerns over the worsening security situation in Sinakeithei village.
The representatives requested deployment of additional forces, including personnel from the Manipur Rifles and the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB). They said repeated attacks by armed groups in recent months have created fear and uncertainty among villagers.
The delegation was accompanied by Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah of the Naga People’s Front.
The villagers also demanded increased manpower at the Sinakeithei police station. In addition, they sought better functioning of the local Sub-Divisional Collector’s office to improve governance and public services in the area.
The Naga People’s Front remains an ally of the BJP-led coalition government in Manipur.
Villagers Demand Humanitarian Assistance and Infrastructure Support
The delegation informed the Chief Minister that residents are facing severe insecurity because of repeated incidents of violence in nearby areas.
They requested immediate humanitarian assistance for affected families. Their demands included the supply of essential commodities and stronger security arrangements in vulnerable zones.
The village authority also appealed for security coverage along the Mahadev-Sinakeithei road. According to the delegation, safe transportation has become difficult due to the prevailing tension.
Apart from security concerns, the villagers urged the government to improve healthcare infrastructure and accelerate developmental projects in the region.
The delegation appreciated the deployment of two companies of the Border Security Force in the Sinakeithei area. They also thanked the government for constructing an inter-village road connecting Sinakeithei with Ukhrul district headquarters.
Additionally, the villagers welcomed the approval of a bailey bridge over the Ihang river, saying the infrastructure project would improve connectivity and transportation.
Ethnic Tensions Continue in Hill Districts
Meanwhile, clashes between Kuki and Naga groups continue to affect several districts of Manipur, including Ukhrul, Kangpokpi and Senapati.
Security concerns escalated after three Baptist church leaders were killed and four others injured in Kangpokpi district on May 13. Following the incident, more than 40 people from Kuki and Naga communities were reportedly held hostage in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
Authorities later confirmed that around 30 people were released on May 14 and 15 after coordinated intervention by officials, civil society groups and community leaders.
The incidents have once again highlighted the fragile law-and-order situation in Manipur and the urgent need for reconciliation between communities.
Key Developments at a Glance
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Concern | Disarmament and restoration of peace |
| Districts Affected | Ukhrul, Kangpokpi, Senapati |
| Delegation | Tangkhul Naga representatives from Sinakeithei |
| Security Demand | Deployment of IRB and Manipur Rifles |
| Infrastructure Requests | Bailey bridge, road connectivity, healthcare |
| Recent Violence | Killing of three church leaders in Kangpokpi |
People Also Ask
Q. Why did the Manipur CM call for disarmament?
The Chief Minister said illegal firearms are fuelling violence and preventing peace in Manipur. He stressed that complete disarmament is necessary to restore normalcy.
Q. What demands did the Tangkhul Naga delegation raise?
The delegation requested additional security forces, better policing, humanitarian aid, healthcare improvements and infrastructure development in Sinakeithei village.
Q. Which districts are witnessing Kuki-Naga tensions?
Ethnic tensions and clashes have been reported in Ukhrul, Kangpokpi and Senapati districts since February this year. (Edited)