Imphal, February 19 Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Thursday appealed to internally displaced people and civil society organizations in the hill and valley areas to cooperate with the state government in its efforts to overcome the lack of trust between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in the state.
He said the lack of trust stemmed from the ethnic violence that has occurred in some areas.
Speaking at a program for distributing relief to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Imphal, Singh said, "There are certain places where IDPs cannot immediately enter. We are witnessing a gradual return of peace to the state. However, due to the conflict between the two communities, there exists a lack of trust. I appeal to all the CSOs, IDPs, and the people of the communities to overcome this lack of trust."
He said the state government is working to ensure that all IDPs return to their homes.
Singh said, "I also appeal to foster love and understanding among the IDPs and the people of the hills and the Imphal valley. The government remains open 24 hours to address the grievances of IDPs. We are also working to ensure that all of them return to their homes."
Relief distribution programs have also been organized in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts in the presence of legislators Paolienal Haokip, LM Khaute, Letzamang, and Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen.
"Manipur has 36 communities, all of which have defended the state since historical times. The state is one, and with this thought, the program is being held in both hills and the valley. MLAs are also working to assist the government," Singh said.
Manipur has witnessed ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023.
So far, more than 260 people have been killed and thousands have been rendered homeless in the violence.
