Manipur CM Turns to Bible and Buddha to Urge Peace in Restive Hill Districts
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday invoked religious teachings to appeal for peace during visits to the districts of Kangpokpi and Senapati, areas that have seen tensions between communities.
Addressing church leaders at Kangpokpi Bazaar, the Chief Minister, who is Hindu, referred to the Bible and the teachings of Gautama Buddha. 'You are Christians; the Nagas are also Christians. When you open the Bible, it sends the message of forgive and forget. I am a Hindu and a believer in Gautama Buddha, who preached peace. We should all work for the return of peace in Manipur,' he said.
The visit comes after the killing of three church leaders on May 13. The Chief Minister interacted with villagers, including those who were abducted and later released. Church leaders urged the government to ensure justice by arresting the gunmen responsible for the ambush. Mr. Singh assured them that justice would be delivered regardless of community. 'Meitei, Kuki, or Naga, anyone doing wrong will be punished,' he said.
Local leaders also raised concerns. Lengmang Chongloi, chief of Taphou Kuki village, requested a security post for the village, which borders Senapati district, and also sought a community hall and market shed for the 250-household village. Haokholen Kipgen, president of the Sadar Hills Village Chiefs Association, urged the Chief Minister to help lift the ongoing blockade of National Highway 2 by Naga groups, saying the blockade was causing hardship to residents of Kangpokpi district.
The Chief Minister responded by stating that efforts are under way to create a peaceful atmosphere that would allow free movement on highways. He also said he had instructed the Kangpokpi district administration to prioritise healthcare needs of Kuki internally displaced persons.
In Senapati, the Chief Minister reiterated the need for all communities to find common ground in their Manipuri identity. He thanked the United Naga Council for facilitating the safe release of Kuki hostages while reviewing ongoing development projects.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, MLAs Tongbram Robindro Singh, Sheikh Noorul Hassan and J. Kumo Sha, and senior officials including Home Commissioner N. Ashok Kumar and Horticulture Commissioner T.N. Panmei.
