Imphal: Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday said people from the Kuki-Zo community are now frequently travelling to Imphal to board flights, reflecting a gradual easing of tensions after over three years of conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.The CM said earlier people from the two communities were hesitant to venture into each other’s areas. However, he highlighted that Kuki groups visited the CM Bungalow in Imphal recently and discussions were held on ways to bring lasting peace in the state.Khemchand asserted that a united Manipur is the only way forward for all communities living in the state. He said Manipur’s identity and territorial integrity have been preserved through the ages by the collective sacrifices of all its 36 communities.Notably, Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen and representatives of Kuki civil organisations, including those said to be from Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), met with the CM at his official residence in Imphal two days ago.However, KIM on Thursday clarified it has no knowledge of any meeting between its representatives, Kuki Students’ Organisation and the CM. A KIM statement said any engagement with the govt must strictly follow due process, including prior consultation with the executive committee and the consent of the community.“If any member is found to have participated in such a meeting, appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the principles of accountability and responsibility upheld by the organisation,” the statement said.The CM was speaking during the inauguration of Mission Blind School’s girls’ hostel and a reception event at Laiching Heikakpokpi in Tengnoupal district. Expressing concern over rising tensions in the hill districts between the Naga and Kuki communities, Khemchand said violence can never provide a solution, and emphasised resolving differences through dialogue. He reiterated his appeal to all the communities to maintain peace and harmony across the state.
CM Khemchand Singh inaugurates Mission Blind School’s girls’ hostel in Tengnoupal on Friday
