Imphal, May 20: Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on May 20 stressed the urgent need to address the issue of firearms across the state, while reiterating that peace and reconciliation remain central to resolving the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
The remarks were made during a meeting with a delegation from the Tangkhul Naga community of Sinakeithei village in Ukhrul district. The delegation sought enhanced security arrangements in the village in view of the prevailing tension in the region.
The team was accompanied by Ram Muivah of the Naga People’s Front, along with village representatives who raised concerns over security deployment and administrative functioning. Residents sought greater police presence, additional manpower at the Sinakeithei police station and effective functioning of sub-divisional collector offices in the area.
Sinakeithei village has reportedly witnessed repeated attacks allegedly linked to suspected militants following earlier clashes between Kuki and Tangkhul Naga groups.
Responding to the concerns raised by the delegation, Singh said addressing the issue of firearms across different parts of the state had become an urgent requirement. However, he also stated that disarming individuals possessing weapons was not legally feasible in certain circumstances and emphasised that dialogue remained the most viable approach to restoring normalcy.
The Chief Minister appealed to community leaders throughout the state to guide young people away from violence and collectively contribute to peace-building efforts.
He further stated that the government was placing emphasis on creating employment opportunities beyond government jobs through skill development and training initiatives aimed at empowering young people.
Manipur has continued to witness prolonged unrest since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, with more than 260 people having lost their lives during the conflict.
