Manipur can be called peaceful State only when IDPs could go back to their homes: MLA Surjakumar
Source: The Sangai Express

Thoubal, October 22 2025: The spirit of Ningol Chakkouba, the traditional festival symbolising the bond between brothers and sisters, brought moments of joy and togetherness to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) sheltering at Lamding Higher Secondary Relief Camp in Thoubal district.

The celebration held at Lamding Ikop Ningthou Laibung, organised by the Lamding Whatsapp Group, an apex group of five localities of Lamding area, came as a comforting respite for those who have been living in camps since the onset of violence two years ago when Kuki militants burnt and damaged their homes.

The festive event was attended by Khangabok Assembly Constituency MLA Okram Surjakumar; Dr Micky Hijam; S Chaoba Singh of Lamding Whatsapp Group; and Sangaiyumpham Zilla Parishad former ZP member Md Hibjur Rahaman as presidium members.

The IDPs Ningol from Moreh and Churachandpur staying at Lamding Higher Secondary School Relief Camp participated with joy, sharing emotional moments with their brothers and sisters.

Simple gifts were also presented to the Ningols by MLA Surjakumar and members of the Lamding Whatsapp Group as a gesture of solidarity and hope.

Speaking at the occasion, MLA Okram Surjakumar stressed that peace in Manipur would remain incomplete until the displaced persons could return to their original homes.

He stated that even though the Government frequently claims that peace has returned in the State, true peace cannot be accepted until the EDPs are able to go back to their original homes.

"Only when the IDPs could return to their original homes, Manipur can be called a peaceful State without any violence," Surjakumar added.

He further urged for collective efforts to ensure that by next year's Ningol Chakkouba, the displaced families could celebrate the festival with their families in their own homes.

The celebration was also attended by Wangjing Lamding Municipal Council, Councillor Y Ibopishak; Social Workers Laishram Subash and Y Basan; LMG president S Ojit; Treasurer L Romen, LMG advisor Ngangom Joy and K Shyama, among others as dais members.

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