Mnp CM Khemchand visits IDPsin Jiribam; assures safe return

Manipur chief minister Y. Khemchand Singh on Wednesday visited Jiribam district where he interacted with internally displaced persons (IDPs) belonging to the Hmar tribe and assured them of the government’s commitment to facilitating their safe, secure, and dignified return to their homes.
Addressing IDPs at a relief camp near Jiribam headquarters, Singh emphasized the need for unity across communities. “First of all we are all human beings, then we are Indians.
Then again, we are Manipuris but we are not calling ourselves that,” he said, urging families to remain calm and focus on the younger generation. He stressed that restoration of normalcy, rebuilding trust, and peaceful coexistence remain the government’s highest priorities.
Singh encouraged the displaced families to move forward with courage, describing the past two years as a “nightmare” that must be overcome.
He added that Christianity, the faith of the Hmar IDPs, teaches forgiveness and love for neighbours and even enemies, underscoring the importance of reconciliation.
The chief minister also visited Jarolpokpi Hmar village, which had witnessed violence in 2023.
This marked his second visit to Kuki villages since the outbreak of ethnic conflict in May 2023. Prior to becoming chief minister, Singh had interacted with Kuki IDPs at Litan Saraikhong in Ukhrul district in December last year.
During his Jiribam tour, Singh landed by helicopter and proceeded to Jiribam Higher Secondary School campus, where he met Meitei IDPs at a relief camp.
He listened to their concerns and reviewed arrangements for their immediate and long-term needs. “Every displaced family carries a story of pain, resilience, and hope. Our government stands firmly with them in this hour of hardship,” he said, directing authorities to ensure food, healthcare, sanitation, education, and security without compromise.
Singh also presented a wheelchair to an elderly woman under the Palliative Care Scheme. Later, he visited Mongbung Meitei village, where residents requested road repairs.
He gave a positive nod to their appeal and urged villagers to begin dialogue with neighbouring communities to remove the trust deficit.
Highlighting Jiribam’s potential as a business hub, Singh said peace was essential for development. He assured IDPs that houses for the homeless were under construction and expected to be completed by March.
Speaking to reporters, Singh reiterated his vision of a unified Manipur free from caste and community divisions.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to restore peace and harmony, and to advance the welfare of every citizen of Manipur,” he said.
Before concluding his maiden visit outside Imphal since assuming office, Singh laid the foundation stone for new IRB barracks at the 87-Bn CRPF headquarters in Jiribam.