Must shed burdensome hatred plaguing our lives: Biren
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 24 2023: Governor Anusuiya Uikey, chief minister N Biren Singh and education minister Th Basanta Kumar Singh have extended warm greetings to the people of Manipur especially the Christian brethren on the joyous and auspicious occasion of Christmas which falls on December 25.In his greeting, chief minister N Biren Singh reminded that for over seven months now, Manipur has been going through possibly one of the worst phases in its history.

He regretted that the unprecedented ethnic conflict has taken many precious lives while leaving hundreds homeless and thousands seeking shelter in relief camps and homes of relatives, friends and care givers.

It has affected men, women and children of all ages, bringing to life each cold night the fear and trauma they have passed through, to escape death and survive, he lamented, adding that communities are divided, hurling abuses and hatred at each other, mostly based on blurred perceptions and imaginations.

"Yet, this is not the Manipur we are used to.

Our state and our people were never like this.

We cannot allow our state to remain in this ugly phase, lest the goodness in each one of us is lost forever.

We must rise in unison and take back our ailing state to its former self of peace and giving and sharing.

We must ask unto ourselves, search our conscience and be willing to shed this burdensome hatred plaguing our lives," the chief minister said.

Urging both the warring communities to reach out to the friends on the other side, for they themselves are willing to reach out to us, the chief minister said that we must open our ears and listen to the cries on the other side and then, we will realise that much has been lost and wasted in a momentary lapse of reason.

We must seek and allow the humanity in each one of us to rise above all evil thoughts, the chief minister conveyed, adding that we must rise together to overcome fear of hatemongers and work steadfast to recreate space for our younger generations, one defined by love, peace and forgiveness.

The chief minister said, "Only when we are able to overcome the dark shadows within us, will Christmas be meaningful for those who believe in Christ and His teachings and for those of us who still partake in the celebrations of Christmas, despite belonging to other faiths".

In her message, Governor Anusuiya conveyed that the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated as Christmas on December 25 every year and it is the most important festival in the life of a Christian anywhere in the world.

He was the apostle of peace and preached forgiveness, compassion and love, she stated while also congratulating the Christian missionaries for the massive expansion of educational institutions.

Meanwhile, education minister Basanta expressed hope that the festival will promote, harmony in the society by Spreading peace and prosperity.

He also advised the people to follow the teaching of love, compassion and philanthropy of Jesus Christ and be determined for the benefit of the society and the nation.

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