Interfaith Forum appeals for peaceful resolution
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 10 2025: The Interfaith Forum Manipur (IFM) has issued an urgent appeal to all parties concerned to allow tensions to subside, and emphasised the need for restraint and dialogue to prevent further violence and loss of lives.

Expressing anguish over the violent incidentin Kangpokpi on Saturday, on the day of International Women's Day - the forum lamented the suffering inflicted, especially on women.

In a release, IFM acknowledged the Central government's decisive actions in controlling arms and violence, despite coming after many lives were lost and thousands were displaced.

These efforts, it noted, had initially helped in calming tensions and renewing hopes for dialogue.

However, the forum expressed concern that the situation has suddenly and severely regressed, calling for renewed efforts to maintain stability.

The forum urged the state authorities to seek the assistance of responsible senior citizens, women peace-makers, retired goodwill government officers, and influential religious leaders from all communities before undertaking actions such as road-opening, which it acknowledged as the rightful obligation of the state.

It stressed that careful groundwork must be laid to ensure such actions do not escalate tension.

IFM highlighted the plight of many innocent lives that remain unaccounted for and the unresolved grief of families unable to perform proper funerals.

It also underscored the deep longing of thousands of displaced persons, including women, elderly, and children, to return home, emphasising their desire for a peaceful resolution rather than prolonged conflict.

The forum further reminded all stakeholders of their duty toward children, who have already endured immense hardship due to the pandemic and ongoing violence.

It called for prioritising their right to protection and quality education, urging everyone to remember their children before taking any action that may fuel further divisions.

IFM emphasised that building trust with immediate neighbours should be seen as a greater challenge and responsibility for parents than seeking victory in conflict.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, IFM expressed its readiness to support any initiative that fosters dialogue, trust, and reconciliation among communities.

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