IMPHAL, August 19: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday urged artistes to use art and culture to promote peace, harmony and reconciliation among communities amid the ongoing crisis in the state.
During an interaction with prominent artistes at the Chief Minister’s Bungalow in Babupara, Khemchand Singh said the conflict, which initially involved two communities, had now evolved into a crisis involving three communities. He called upon the Meitei community to take the role of a “big brother and big sister” and initiate efforts to help end the crisis.
The Chief Minister stressed the need to rebuild trust and restore relationships by breaking barriers that had emerged during the conflict. He cited Jiribam as an example of communities returning to peaceful coexistence.
He also recalled his efforts during the initial phase of the conflict to help save around 120 Meitei labourers in Churachandpur, saying Henglep MLA Letzamang Haokip had responded positively. Khemchand Singh said it would be unethical to blame an entire community for the actions of a few individuals.
The Chief Minister also reiterated the government’s support for implementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur and appreciated artistes for raising the issue.
Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh said the government was ready to support artistes and urged them to contribute to strengthening unity.
The artistes proposed using theatre, music, social media and cultural programmes for peacebuilding. Stage artiste Shougrakpam Hemanta proposed a play titled Ei Manipuri Ni (I Am Manipuri), while other artistes suggested outreach programmes along National Highway 2 and greater use of social media to promote reconciliation.
The meeting was attended by senior Art and Culture Department officials, the Chief Minister’s media adviser and artistes from across the state.
