Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday reached out to Naga organizations in Senapati district, seeking their cooperation in restoring peace and fostering unity in the violence-stricken state. Speaking at Robvena Ni, a cultural event in Punanamei village, Singh highlighted the state’s struggles over the past 19 months but expressed hope for gradual improvement with collective efforts.
The Chief Minister emphasized the event’s theme of reconciliation and forgiveness as vital to healing the state’s divisions. He praised the significant role played by the people of Senapati district, including organizations such as the Naga Peoples’ Organisation, Senapati District Students’ Association, and the United Naga Council Headquarters, in preserving the unity and integrity of Manipur.
“The role of the people of Senapati district is huge in protecting the state’s unity and strengthening indigenous communities,” Singh said, reiterating the importance of collaboration between hill and valley residents.
He pointed to the state’s “Go-to-Hills” campaign as a cornerstone initiative designed to bridge the gap between communities in the hills and the plains, bringing governance closer to marginalized areas. “I came here today to seek help from the people of Senapati district to restore peace and normalcy in the state,” he said.
Singh stressed that a united Manipur would require mutual respect and equitable development between its diverse communities. He also highlighted the government’s war on drugs as a measure to safeguard the state’s youth and explained the controversial identification of illegal immigrants as a necessary step to protect indigenous populations.
The Chief Minister underscored the state’s efforts to preserve its indigenous heritage, citing the establishment of the Sangai Ethnic Park to showcase the culture of the 34 recognized tribes in Manipur. Singh acknowledged that the rise of unrecognized villages, as detected through satellite imagery, had raised concerns about the preservation of the indigenous population, especially given the small numbers of certain Naga tribes.
He attributed some of the violence and unrest to the fallout from these measures, noting that over 250 lives have been lost and thousands displaced in the ongoing ethnic clashes between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023.
Looking forward, Singh announced plans for a Rs 140-crore Unity Mall in Imphal East district, which will feature stalls from all recognized tribes to celebrate the state’s cultural diversity. He also called for the expansion of Senapati town to meet the demands of its growing population and infrastructure needs.
The Chief Minister’s visit to the interior Naga village was made by helicopter, as the Kuki Zo Council in Churachandpur opposed his travel through Kangpokpi district by road. Despite the challenges, Singh reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fostering peace, unity, and development in Manipur.