Artistes urged to revive age old relationships
CM reiterates stand of backing NRC
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 19 2026: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has reiterated that the State Government supports the demand for updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur, while stressing the need for peace and communal harmony in the State.

The Chief Minister made the statement while meeting a group of renowned artistes at the Chief Minister's Bungalow at Babupara today.

According to a statement issued by the CM's Secretariat, the meeting was organised to disseminate the message of peace and harmony among the various communities in the State through different forms of art.

Artistes urged to revive age old relationships

Speaking to the artistes, Khemchand said the crisis in the State, which initially began as a conflict between two communities, has now evolved into a conflict involving three communities.

He said the Meiteis must take on the role of a "big brother and big sister" and take initiatives to help bring an end to the crisis.

Recalling the situation during the crisis, Khemchand said that while serving as a Cabinet Minister, he had requested Henglep AC MLA Letzamang Haokip to help save the lives of 120 Meitei labourers stranded in Churachandpur district.

He said the MLA responded positively to the request.

Khemchand maintained that it would be unethical to blame an entire community for the actions of a few individuals.

He said restoring trust and love among the different communities residing in the State would require bridging the barriers that emerged between them during the crisis.

The Chief Minister also claimed that Jiribam district has returned to normalcy, with communities living peacefully without mistrust.

Khemchand further stressed that the Government supports the updation of NRC in Manipur and appreciated the artistes for raising the issue with the Government.

Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, who organised the gathering, said the Government is ready to extend assistance to artistes and urged them to work towards strengthening unity among the people of the State.

Shougrakpam Hemanta, a Shumang Leela artiste, said it is important to revive the age-old relationships that existed among the different communities in the State.

He suggested producing a stage play titled "Ei Mani-puri Ni" (I am a Manipuri) .

Manipuri film actor Gokul Athokpam said artistes are ready to visit different areas along National Highway-2 to interact with various communities.

He urged the Government to make proper security arrangements for such visits. Singer Konthoujam Bobin said he takes pride in being part of efforts to promote oneness in the State.

He urged artistes to remain united and strengthen bonds of love irrespective of their communities.

Tangkhul Naga folk artiste Guru Rewben Mashangva said the vision of oneness could be achieved if all artistes collectively acknowledged that they are all Manipuris, without differences.

Actress Chanam Lilabati stressed the need to use social media effectively to attract the younger generation towards peace-building and foster love and understanding among different communities.

The meeting was also attended by Secretary, Art and Culture, Naorem Praveen Singh, Advisor (Media) to the Chief Minister Oinam Sunil Singh; and several artistes.