Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday appealed to community leaders across Manipur to encourage young people to renounce violence and choose dialogue, asserting that peace remains the only way forward amid the continuing unrest in the border state.
The appeal came during a meeting with representatives of the Tangkhul Naga community from Sinakeithei village in Ukhrul district, who met the Chief Minister along with Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah to discuss security issues and humanitarian concerns in the region.
During the interaction, the delegation sought deployment of additional IRB personnel and developmental assistance to deal with recurring threats posed by armed groups.
Stressing the urgent need to restore normalcy, the Chief Minister said that complete disarmament across the state was essential for lasting peace.
Referring to the ideals of Nelson Mandela, he urged both community elders and the youth to reject violence and contribute towards reconciliation.
He further spoke about the government’s efforts to expand skill development programmes aimed at generating employment opportunities beyond the government sector.
The Tangkhul Naga representatives informed the Chief Minister about the persistent fear among villagers due to repeated attacks by armed miscreants. They demanded enhanced security along the Mahadev-Sinakeithei route, supply of essential commodities, and adequate staffing at the local police station.
The delegation also thanked the state government for deploying two companies of the Border Security Force in the Sinakeithei area.
They additionally expressed appreciation for infrastructure initiatives, including the construction of an inter-village road connecting Sinakeithei with Ukhrul headquarters and the approval of a Bailey bridge over the Ihang River.