Child born in relief camp enlivens hopes of parents
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 01 2023: Being a mother is no easy feat and like every other mother, Piyainu who fled persecution, though exhausted and distressed, is hopeful of a brighter future as she began her parenting journey at a shelter home.

Just 18 years of age, Piyainu of Phayeng Ching Khunou who fled from her village due to the onslaught of Kuki militants gave birth to a baby boy on July 27 at Shakti Sadan Shelter Home at Keishamthong Laisom Leirak.

Before taking refuge at the shelter home, she initially stayed at a particular relief camp from May 4 till July 12 .

Eepan Thaba of her (Piyainu) first born, the first ceremony after birth, was observed today at the shelter home.

Child born in relief camp enlivens hopes of parents

Speaking to the media, Piyainu said that her husband Angom Manichandra and parents-in-law are daily wagers.

Saying that all their sources of income have been cut off due to the aggression of Kuki militants and their associates, the new mother said and added that Kuki militants frequently attack Meitei villages at Phayeng, Kangchup, Kadangband and Koutruk.

Instead of working, most of the locals in these sensitive areas are guarding their villages round the clock as Kuki militants may attack any time, she added.

Piyainu said that she misses her home but a glimpse of her newborn makes her forget all her worries and uncertainties of the future.

"I will always remain indebted to the people at the shelter home who looked after me and bore expenses even for the child delivery," Piyainu added.

Mother-in-law of Piyainu, Angom Maimu said that the violence in Manipur has taken a toll on everyone but poor people face extra burden.

She then expressed desire for the Centre and the Manipur Government to control the Kuki militants so as to restore peace and normalcy.

Maimu, whose face has been blackened due to prolonged exposure to the sun while guarding her village with local-mates, said that most people at Phayeng side are not getting any sound sleep since the last three months due to the Kuki aggression.

Do the Governments at the Centre and the State want complete annihilation of Meiteis, she asked.

Maimu then turned her face towards her grandson and changed the subject from Kuki aggression to her love for the newborn abruptly.

The proud mother-in-law said that she will name her grandson Langamba as he was born amid the conflict.