Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited Ukhrul villages, urging dialogue and peace between communities, while assuring development initiatives and highlighting the urgent need to safeguard children’s future amid ongoing tensions.
IMPHAL — Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday made an emotional appeal for peace and reconciliation during his visit to several villages in Ukhrul district, stressing that dialogue remains the only path forward amid ongoing tensions.
The visit, undertaken as part of a trust-building initiative, aimed to bridge the growing divide between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities in the region.
Addressing villagers during his tour, the Chief Minister emphasized that violence would have long-term consequences, particularly for children.
“There is no other option left other than dialogue for the restoration of peace,” he said, highlighting that every community has both positive and negative elements, but ordinary citizens desire a peaceful life.
In an emotional moment at Thawai Kuki Village, the Chief Minister consoled a grieving woman, expressing deep empathy and stating that he shared the same pain and anguish felt by affected families.
Calling for restraint and unity, Khemchand Singh urged elders and community leaders to guide society toward peaceful coexistence, keeping future generations in mind. He warned that continued violence could severely impact children’s development and prospects.
During interactions across multiple villages, the Chief Minister addressed several pressing concerns raised by residents:
He directed officials, including the Public Works Department, to expedite infrastructure projects and ensure timely execution.
At Sharkaphung, a Tangkhul Naga village, Khemchand Singh received a warm welcome from local leaders and residents. He reiterated the importance of dialogue, drawing parallels with global conflicts.
Referring to historical events, he noted that even major conflicts like World War II ended through sustained dialogue, urging communities to overcome past grievances and work toward peace.
The Chief Minister also visited Shangkai, Shokvao and Ramva villages along the Imphal–Ukhrul route. Residents highlighted concerns such as lack of drinking water, slow development works and poor road conditions.
In each location, Khemchand Singh assured that the government would take up the issues on priority and work towards inclusive development across the state.
During the journey, Khemchand Singh was briefed by officials from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) on the progress of the Imphal–Ukhrul–Jessami road project. He assured that bottlenecks would be addressed in coordination with senior officials.
At Ukhrul headquarters, the Chief Minister received a grand reception from district authorities, civil society organizations and local residents. He later inspected preparations for the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival 2026 at Shirui Village, accompanied by senior ministers and officials.
Reiterating his core message, Khemchand Singh called for initiating dialogue when emotions are calm, stressing that peace efforts must be sincere and inclusive.
His visit marks a significant outreach effort by the state government to ease tensions and rebuild trust among communities, even as concerns persist over the fragile situation in the region.
