Guwahati: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh recently highlighted the need for all local communities in Manipur to come together. He believes that unity is crucial, especially after many years of sharing the land. Singh said that the Manipur Indigenous People’s Cultural Exchange Festival, held at Chadong village in Kamjong district, is a big step towards bringing peace back to the area.
He stated, “Manipur belongs to its native people, and our ancestors fought to protect this land for over 2,000 years. We are dedicated to protecting their history and culture.” The Chief Minister also encouraged everyone to learn about population and demographic details to challenge any false stories that might create division.
Furthermore, Singh announced the destruction of 100 acres of illegal poppy farms, with help from the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and local groups. He criticized the Congress party, saying they are trying to create rifts in the state.
Recently, violence erupted in the Jiribam district after six women and children were found dead. In a separate incident, ten armed militants died during heavy fighting. Some Kuki groups claimed those who died were not militants but local volunteers. According to Kuldiep Singh, a security advisor, the ongoing ethnic violence, which started on May 3 last year, has led to the deaths of 258 people, including militants. The conflict began after a protest march for the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status in the hill areas.
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