CM urges Naga leaders to take initiative in resolving crisis
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, January 11 2025: Chief minister N Biren on Saturday urged the Naga community, particularly its church, community leaders, and elected representatives, to play a greater role in resolving the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state.

He made this appeal during the 42nd Maralui Karalimei Swijoikang (Maram Students' Union) Conference held at N Raisung Ground in Maram Bazar, Senapati district.

The ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meetei communities since May 2023 have resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands homeless.

While the Naga community has remained uninvolved in the conflict, Biren stressed the need for their intervention as a neutral third party to mediate and restore peace.

CM urges Naga leaders to take initiative in resolving crisis

Addressing the gathering, the CM said, "1 appeal to the Naga communities that a third party is required to resolve the current issues and restore peace.

For this, church and community leaders need to take responsibility and initiative.

All grievances and problems can be addressed within the framework of the Constitution and the laws of the state government" .

Biren called for a collective effort to heal the divisions caused by the conflict, adding, "Whatever happened has happened.

As I mentioned in my New Year's message, it is time to forget and forgive.

We need to walk together on the path of peace and bring back the Manipur we once knew.

Let us work together to overcome this crisis".

He sought the support of the gathering, including elected and former elected representatives, as well as church leaders, emphasising their critical role in fostering unity and reconciliation.

The CM pledged his unwavering commitment to peacebuilding, stating, "I am available 24/7 and will provide all necessary support from the government to establish peace.

During the Kuki-Naga clashes of the 1990s, we worked tirelessly to bring a solution.

Similarly, I urge you now to take assertive steps to restore normalcy".

He reiterated that the concerns of indigenous communities must be addressed and stressed the importance of unity among the 34 recognized tribes of the state.

Highlighting his government's efforts to combat illegal immigration and the drug menace, Biren noted that protecting the smaller indigenous communities remained a priority.

Many of the indigenous communities of the state are unable to cross 50,000 population while on the other hand, some groups are reporting over 400 per cent population growth in the last few decades.

"Our war against narcotics and the identification of illegal immigrants is essential to safeguarding the interests of our indigenous people," he said.

The CM also emphasised the government's dedication to inclusive development and the upliftment of all communities in the state.

He inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for various development projects in Senapati district during the event.

These projects include the construction of rigid pavement in Senapati district headquarters at an estimated cost of Rs 27.26 crores, boys' and girls' hostels for tribals at Maram for Rs 5 crores, and a tourist circuit in the Maram area worth Rs 6 crores.

Other initiatives include the development of Meeyamgi Shanglen (Multipurpose Indoor Hall) for Rs 2.5 crores, a sports ground with a gallery for Rs 2.5 crores, infrastructure upgrades for Maram Police Station, and facilities at CHC Maram and PHC Maram Khullen.

Biren also inaugurated a Multipurpose Rural Development Centre at Maram Khullen, constructed at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore.

He affirmed his government's commitment to fulfilling the objective of uniform development in both the hills and the valley, mentioning citizen-centric schemes such as Go to Village and CMHT that have benefitted lakhs of people.

Acknowledging the role of the Naga community in fostering harmony, the CM remarked that the Maram people have maintained strong bonds with their neighbours since ancient times.

He expressed admiration for the disciplined and dedicated students of the region, adding, "With strong discipline, we can build a civilised and developed society".

He emphasised that mutual respect, inclusive development, and equitable sharing of resources would foster unity among the state's diverse communities.

The CM also spoke of a multi-storey vehicle parking facility being constructed in Senapati, a first of its kind in the state, and the ongoing development of an Indigenous Sports Complex with an estimated cost of Rs 14 crores.

He sought the cooperation and active participation of church leaders, civil society organisations, and other indigenous communities in restoring peace, drawing parallels with the Committee of Peace and Integrity's efforts in the 1990s.During the event, Biren unveiled the monolith and unfurled the flag of the 42nd Maralui Karalimei Swijoikang Conference.

The programme included cultural performances, including traditional dances and folk songs presented by village youth.

Former minister Francis Ngajokpa, speaking as the guest of honour, encouraged the gathering to adopt a positive outlook and utilise available resources for societal progress.

Former deputy speaker K Raina praised Biren's leadership, calling him a role model for transforming society through government-driven initiatives.

Works minister Govindas Konthoujam, PHED minister Leisangthem Susindro, Karong MLA J Kumo Sha, Mao MLA Losii Dikho, DC Senapati Mamoni Doley, SP Anupam, and SDOs, DLOs, and CSO representatives also attended the programme.