Khemchand underscores need for common ground
'Cannot move beyond Pallel, Sekmai'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 12 2024: For the first time in the long history of Manipur, Meiteis cannot move beyond Pallel in the South and Sekmai in the North.

This was stated by RD&PR Minister Y Khemchand at a Nupi Lan function held at Singjamei Super Market today.

It will be hard to control the protracted violence if the State Government cannot reach every comer of the State, he said.

Noting that CSOs and Meira Paibi groups have divergent thoughts and perspectives on the current issue, Khemchand highlighted the need to explore a common ground.

Even though around 47,000 people from both the communities have been saved by each other since the crisis erupted, very few people are talking about these stories while the spotlight is always focused on killings and fightings, Khemchand said.

Around 140 Meitei people who were working in Henglep area were safely escorted through forests to an Assam Rifles camp by Kuki chiefs.

Not all Kukis are bad.

There are many Kukis who believe in peaceful co-existence, he said.

Only dialogue can bring a solution to the protracted crisis.

Gun culture can never bring a solution.

Even the Second World War, where millions of people were killed, was brought to an end through dialogue, Khemchand said.

"I don't think reimposition of AFSPA has any relevance to the current crisis.

It was the Government's failure to protect lives and properties of citizens which gave rise to village volunteers.

The contributions made by village volunteers is commendable", he said.

Before the formal Nupi Lan function started, the 33 rd State Level Nupi Lan Ningsing Lamjel was flagged off from the Nupi Lan Memorial Complex at 6.40 am.

Singjamei Super Market was the finishing point of the race which was participated by 1505 women.

In the 35-45 years category, Sunita Ningombam of Kontha Khabam, Wangkheimayum Subita of Khundrakpam Makha Leikai and Paonam Indira of Takyel Khongbal finished first, second and third respectively.

The top three positions in 46-59 years category were won by Ahanthem Joymai of Heirangoithong Yaingam Leirak, Wangjam Naimu of Kontha Ahallup Makha Leikai and Saikhom Bideshini of Khangabok Awang Leikai.

In the 60+ category, the top three positions were won by Irom Indrani of Khurai Chingangbam Leikai, Ch Thambalsang of Kongpal Mutum Leikai and RK Tamphasana of Chingamathak.

The formal function started with offering of floral tributes to the Nupi Lan statue located at Singjamei Super Market.

Later prizes were distributed to the winners of the Nupi Lan race as well as the oldest participants of the race who were above 80 .

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