Naga Community Key to Peace in Manipur, Says CM Biren; Calls for ‘Forgive and Forget’

Without mutual respect and equal development, we cannot achieve love and peace in Manipur, said the CM

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has called upon the Naga community and its civil society organizations to lead efforts in fostering peace and normalcy in Manipur, which has been gripped by turmoil for the past 19 months.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of RobvenaNi 2024 at Asufu Robvena Ground in Punanamei Village, Senapati District, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in moving forward.

“Without mutual respect and equal development, we cannot achieve love and peace in Manipur. The Naga community has a crucial role in bringing unity and maintaining the integrity of the state’s indigenous people,” said Biren.

The Chief Minister pointed out that several developmental projects have been initiated under his leadership, aimed at fostering growth across all communities in the state. He also emphasized that the ongoing issues stemmed largely from misunderstandings.

Biren stated that the state government’s initiatives, such as the “war on drugs” and measures to curb illegal immigration, are not targeted against any particular community.

“We have limited indigenous populations, and our government’s actions are focused on protecting our people from the menace of drugs and illegal immigrants. These measures are being carried out under the Indian Constitution and are not meant to harm anyone,” he clarified.

He further mentioned that satellite images had revealed the emergence of unrecognized villages, prompting the government to act. “These images are not manipulated. Such steps might have caused the current unrest, but we are determined to bring peace back to Manipur. The loss of so many lives is heartbreaking,” the CM added.

Calling for dialogue, he said, “If there are any mistakes, we should sit together at the table and discuss the issues to find solutions. Everyone makes mistakes, but we must work towards a peaceful settlement.”

CM Biren appealed to all communities to support the government’s efforts in building a peaceful and prosperous Manipur. “The future lies in reconciliation and collective progress. Let us forgive and forget, and work together for the greater good of our state,” he urged.

The Chief Minister also highlighted several developmental projects initiated under the “Go to Hills” mission, bringing improvements in education, healthcare, and connectivity in Manipur’s hill districts.

“It’s not just propaganda, the changes in the hill regions are visible. In Senapati, the state’s first multi-storey car parking facility is being built, and more developmental projects are in the pipeline,” he said.

He also announced the construction of a Rs. 140-crore “Unity Mall” at Keikon in Imphal East. “This market will have stalls for all recognized indigenous tribes, symbolising unity,” Biren explained.

Additionally, advanced medical infrastructure is being planned for districts such as Senapati, Chandel, Ukhrul, Tamenglong, and Kangpokpi. “Once these facilities are completed, people won’t need to travel to Imphal or other states for specialised treatment,” he said.

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